Chełmsko Śląskie

Chełmsko Śląskie, located in the Lower Silesian Voivodeship, boasts a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages, when a settlement existed here before receiving town rights in 1289. The village lies at an altitude of 500–550 meters above sea level in the Krzeszów Basin, surrounded by the Krucze Mountains and Zawory Range. Over the centuries, Chełmsko Śląskie was an important administrative and commercial center, with mining and judicial privileges. The town experienced periods of prosperity and decline, including destruction during the Hussite Wars and fires in the 17th century. In the 17th and 18th centuries, home-based weaving developed, and the town began to revive after the construction of the railway in the 19th century. Bartel's lighting monuments, water supply systems, and growing tourism during this period contributed to population growth. After World War II, Chełmsko Śląskie became part of Poland, and most of its German residents were forced to leave their homes. During the communist era, the town faced economic challenges, but after 1989, local associations have been working toward revitalization. Chełmsko Śląskie retains a unique urban layout with a market square and the dominant Parish Church of the Holy Family, as well as numerous valuable monuments, including Baroque townhouses, the complex of weavers' wooden houses known as the "Twelve Apostles," Gothic sculptures, and the former town hall. Interestingly, during the communist period, two local factories helped sustain the population, and after 2007, the Chełmsko Śląskie–Libná border crossing was closed. Other notable heritage sites include the former Evangelical church and the statue of St. John of Nepomuk in the market square, highlighting the religious and cultural legacy of the town. With its rich history, weaving traditions, and tourist appeal, Chełmsko Śląskie is an intriguing destination that attracts history and architecture enthusiasts.