Bielsko County

Bielsko County, established in 1999 as a result of the administrative reform in Poland, is located in the Silesian Voivodeship, with its capital in Bielsko-Biała. The county covers an area of 458.64 km², and its population in 2020 was 166,215 inhabitants. It includes urban municipalities (Szczyrk), urban-rural municipalities (Czechowice-Dziedzice, Wilamowice), and rural municipalities (Bestwina, Buczkowice, Jasienica, Jaworze, Kozy, Porąbka, Wilkowice). Bielsko County has a rich history dating back to the 1850s, when it was established as one of the basic administrative areas in Austrian Silesia. Over the years, the county underwent various transformations, and its borders changed as a result of political events, such as Poland regaining independence and World War II. It is worth noting the region's architecture, which reflects both Austrian influences and local building traditions. Bielsko-Biała is a city with interesting architecture, featuring numerous monuments such as churches, palaces, and industrial buildings that testify to the region's development in the 19th and 20th centuries. Culturally, Bielsko County is known for its diverse festivals, artistic events, and the activities of local associations that promote cultural heritage and art. An interesting fact is that the area of Bielsko County is an ideal place for winter sports, especially in Szczyrk, which is a popular ski resort. Additionally, the county is surrounded by beautiful nature, including the Beskids, which attracts tourists and lovers of active recreation. In recent years, the region has gained importance as a location for investments related to tourism and recreation. Thus, Bielsko County is not only an important administrative center but also a region with a rich history, culture, and beautiful landscapes.