Brzeźnica

Brzeźno is a village located in the Lublin Voivodeship, within the Dorohusk commune, situated along national road no. 12, approximately 10 km from Chełm. With around 962 inhabitants, it is the largest settlement in the commune. The village boasts a rich architectural heritage, including about 20 buildings listed in the register of historical monuments, most of which date back to the 1930s and 1940s. There is also an Orthodox filial church dedicated to St. Vladimir, which belongs to the parish in Chełm. The etymology of the name "Brzeźno" points to an original cluster of birch trees. The history of the village dates back to prehistoric times, with archaeological traces of settlement from the Neolithic period and sites associated with the Lusatian culture. Between 1954 and 1961, Brzeźno was the seat of local authorities for the gromada (a former administrative unit), and from 1975 to 1998, the village was administratively part of the Chełm Voivodeship. An interesting fact is the "Brzeźno" nature reserve, established in 1973, covering an area of 165 hectares, which is part of the carbonate peatlands included in the Natura 2000 program. The reserve is characterized by great biodiversity; around 550 species of vascular plants and 150 species of birds have been recorded here. In particular, the aquatic warbler—a globally threatened species—has one of its largest nesting sites here. The peatlands form a unique natural complex, attracting scientists and nature enthusiasts from all over Europe. The area's uniqueness is highlighted by the presence of an educational trail and an observation tower, which facilitate exploration of the region's natural values.