Bzowski Mound

The Bzowski Mound, located in Będkowice on the hill known as "Na Kamyku," stands approximately 5 meters high and has a diameter of about 20 meters. At its summit, there is a over 200-year-old metal cross and a modern plaque with an inscription, although the latter contains a factual error. In 2009, the cross was damaged by vandals but was repaired after the perpetrators were apprehended. During the partitions of Poland, the mound also served as an observation point for Russian border guards, highlighting its strategic location—from which, on clear days, one can see the panorama of Krakow and the Tatra Mountains. It is the burial mound of a father and son from the Bzowski family: Hiacent (Jacek) Jan Bzowski and Kazimierz Janota-Bzowski. Hiacent Bzowski, born in 1750, was a prominent figure of his time, serving as the burgrave of Krakow and a member of the community of Polish Brethren. During his life, he was involved in political affairs, supported the Constitution of May 3, and was a knight of the Order of Saint Stanislaus. He died in 1808 in Będkowice. Kazimierz, who built his military career in the army of the Duchy of Warsaw, was an aide-de-camp to Prince Józef Poniatowski and took part in the Battle of Leipzig. After his military service ended, he settled in Gruszów and Lipnica Dolna, where he died in 1862. In his will, he allocated funds for the maintenance of the mound, reflecting his attachment to family traditions. The Bzowski family used the nickname Janota, commemorating the founder of the lineage, Jan of Bzów. The mound not only serves as a tomb but also represents an important element of local history and culture, blending architectural heritage with the personal stories of its inhabitants.