Bysławek

Bysławek, known in German as Klein Bislaw, is a village in the Kuyavian-Pomeranian Voivodeship, within Tuchola County, belonging to the Gmina Lubiewo. It is situated near Lake Małe Bysławskie, which features unguarded bathing areas. The village, first mentioned in 1379, has a rich history. In 1389, it was granted rights under Chełmno Law by Grand Master Konrad Zöllner von Rotenstein. A notable architectural landmark is the Church of St. Lawrence, built between 1602 and 1607 from the remodeled manor of the Żaliński family. It is an example of the Neo-Romanesque style, with an altar and Baroque decorations, including chapels dedicated to St. Francis and the Blessed Virgin Mary. The Benedictine nuns played a significant role in the history of Bysławek, arriving here in 1602. However, after the dissolution of the order in 1852, the place was taken over by the Sisters of Mercy. In 1875, the village gained religious vitality thanks to the Franciscans. There are also interesting historical remnants, such as a watermill and windmills. A notable event was the children's strike in German schooling in 1906, which was part of a broader resistance movement against Prussian authorities. The village witnessed numerous demographic and administrative changes—in 1921, it was home to 432 people, and between 1945 and 1998, Bysławek underwent various administrative transformations, eventually returning to Tuchola County. After 1989, the village became a site of pilgrimages and cultural activities, such as the filming of Dorota Osińska's music video and scenes for the movie "Disco Polo." Local community life is actively supported by the Volunteer Fire Department, and the former school was closed in 1997. Bysławek, with its rich history and culture, is a place that blends tradition with modern social and cultural initiatives.