Chojnice

Chojnice is a town in the Pomeranian Voivodeship, serving as the seat of Chojnice County. It is home to approximately 24,000 residents, making it the eighth most populous town in the region. Located along National Road 22, Chojnice lies within the historical territory of Gdańsk Pomerania and is ethnographically part of Kashubia. The town boasts a rich history dating back to the 13th century, with its first documented mention in 1275. From the 14th century onward, Chojnice developed rapidly, primarily due to trade, and in 1360, it received its final town charter from the Teutonic Knights. Architecturally, the town is distinguished by the Gothic Basilica of the Beheading of St. John the Baptist and the 18th-century Baroque Jesuit college. Parts of the medieval town walls and several towers have also been preserved, now serving as tourist attractions. Chojnice takes pride in the beautifully arranged layout of its Old Town, featuring atmospheric tenement houses. The town has experienced numerous historical upheavals, including wars with the Teutonic Knights, and in 1466, it was incorporated into Poland following the Second Peace of Thorn. During the 19th and 20th centuries, Chojnice underwent changes linked to infrastructure development, and after World War II, the town was dynamically rebuilt. A unique aspect of Chojnice is its sailing tradition and the numerous festivals organized here, which attract tourists, including popular trips to the Gochy region. The town is also a sports hub with several clubs, including football and futsal teams competing at the league level. Chojnice is home to several educational institutions, including higher education and technical schools, which draw young people to the area. Together with numerous local media outlets, the town fosters a dynamic cultural and social environment. Interestingly, Chojnice features a sanctuary and pilgrimage base, and its rich heritage is cherished by local residents and institutions. The town is also known for numerous fires throughout its history, which destroyed parts of its buildings and influenced its urban development. Today, Chojnice serves as an important regional center for trade, education, and tourism, enjoying growing interest from both Polish and international visitors.