Borders

Branice is a rural commune in the Opole Voivodeship, located in the Głubczyce County, with its seat in the village of Branice. The commune has an agricultural character and is situated in the southern part of the voivodeship, on the Głubczyce Plateau and in the Opawskie Mountains. It boasts fertile soils and a favorable climate, which supports the development of agricultural activities. With an area of 121.87 km², the majority of the land is used for agriculture (89%), while only 1% is covered by forests. Branice constitutes 18.11% of the county's area. In the past, until 1998, the commune was part of a different voivodeship, which is an interesting fact from the region's administrative history. In 2004, the commune was inhabited by 7,791 people, and by the end of 2019, this number had decreased to 6,474, indicating a declining trend. The commune has a unique demographic structure, and in 2014, an age pyramid of its residents was presented, highlighting the diversity of the local community. Branice borders the communes of Głubczyce and Kietrz, as well as the Czech communes of Krnov, Úvalno, Brumovice, Holasovice, and Opava, creating an international context for the region and fostering cultural exchange. An interesting point in the commune is Plechowa Góra, the highest peak of the Głubczyce Plateau (328 meters above sea level), where a triangulation tower once stood, reflecting the local geomatic history. The region is characterized by a rural lifestyle, and preserved agricultural traditions and local cultural festivals reflect its rich cultural heritage. The commune is a partner of the Czech municipality of Úvalno, which may further promote interregional cooperation. Although sparsely populated, Branice is full of architectural details that reflect the history of the region. Traditional rural buildings and architectural elements can be found here, attracting history enthusiasts. The area preserves numerous natural and landscape features, which become an attraction for tourists seeking tranquility and closeness to nature. Thanks to its agricultural identity, local culture, and geographical location, the Branice commune is an interesting place for both residents and visitors, offering a blend of tradition and nature.