Chodzież

Chodzież is a town in Poland located in the Greater Poland Voivodeship, serving as the seat of Chodzież County. Its history dates back to the Middle Ages, when it was granted town rights in 1434. The town developed along an important trade route, with the initial owners being the Pałuk family, followed by the Potulicki and Grudziński families, who contributed to the development of weaving craftsmanship. The town boasts historical landmarks such as the 15th-century Gothic Church of St. Florian, a classicist bell tower, and the remains of a castle wall. The architecture of Chodzież also includes weavers' houses from the 18th and 19th centuries, as well as modern buildings like the Straszny Dwór, now a hotel and restaurant. Chodzież has a rich cultural life, hosting the International Chodzież Jazz Workshops, which have been held since 1971 and attract musicians from around the world. Additionally, the town is home to the National Festival of Children's and Youth Song. Although Chodzież has undergone various administrative changes over the centuries, including a name change to Colmar during the Prussian era, its local history is marked by tragic events, including those related to World War II and the Greater Poland Uprising. Surrounded by lakes and terrain ideal for physical activities, the town organizes various events such as the Polish Triathlon Championships and the Skoda Auto Grand Prix MTB. Thanks to its cultural and touristic diversity, Chodzież has become an attractive destination for both residents and tourists.