Brzozów County

Brzozów County, established in 1999, is located in the central part of the Podkarpackie Voivodeship. Its capital is the town of Brzozów, which is also the only town in the county. The county is characterized by a diverse industrial sector, including food and wood processing, as well as oil and natural gas extraction. Tourism plays a significant role in the region, attracting visitors to Brzozów and the banks of the San River. It is worth visiting places such as the churches in Blizne and Haczów, which are part of the Wooden Architecture Route and have been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Brzozów County covers 3.02% of the voivodeship's area, and its demographics show a slight decrease in population between 2019 and 2020, which may be a symptom of broader urbanization trends. Geographically, it lies mainly on the slopes of the Dynowskie Foothills, with numerous hills and river valleys, and the region's climate includes two climatic zones: moderately warm and moderately cool. The area is also home to two nature reserves: Kretówki and Cisy in Malinówka, which protect unique plant species. Historically, this area was inhabited as early as the Paleolithic era. One of the most important events was the granting of town rights to Brzozów by Casimir the Great in 1359, which initiated the development of settlements. In the 17th century, the region witnessed numerous wars, and in the 18th century, monasteries began to emerge. After the First Partition of Poland, the Brzozów lands came under Austrian rule, which influenced the development of local culture and institutions. In the 19th century, the region experienced a boom related to oil exploitation and the establishment of the Brzozów-Zdrój health resort. An interesting fact is the lack of railway lines in the county, which is rare in Poland. The county is also known for its traditional crafts, including the production of Brzozów pipes and combs. Football clubs in the region, despite the small population, also contribute to local sports activity. Today, Brzozów County combines a rich history with unique natural and cultural heritage, making it an interesting place to visit and explore.