Bieliny

Bieliny is a picturesque village in the Świętokrzyskie Voivodeship, situated at the foot of the Świętokrzyskie Mountains. Serving as the seat of the local municipality, the village boasts a rich history dating back to the Stone and Neolithic Ages, when the area was a site of metallurgical activity. Architectural elements, such as the early Baroque parish church of St. Joseph the Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary from the 17th century and the cemetery with historic tombstones, reflect historical ties to the bishops of Kraków and the development of local culture. Bieliny is also home to a unique collection of 19th-century roadside shrines and numerous traditional folk buildings relocated to the Ethnographic Park in Tokarnia. The culture of Bieliny is reflected in its folklore, with notable groups such as "Wesele Bielińskie" (Bieliny Wedding) and "Bielinianki," which showcase local traditions at various festivals, including the Świętokrzyskie Strawberry Days. During World War II, Bieliny became a center of resistance, and the pacification of the village by the Germans left a lasting mark on local memory. An interesting fact is that Kazimierz Sabbat, Prime Minister and President of the Republic of Poland in Exile, was born in Bieliny. Modern cultural events, such as the Days of Culture and Tradition of the Bieliny Municipality, and the activities of the Society of Friends of Bieliny, contribute to the preservation of local heritage and the promotion of regional identity. Contemporary recreational infrastructure, including a football stadium and an outdoor gym, enriches the offerings for residents and tourists, creating a friendly space for active leisure.