Dobiercice

Dobiercice, known in German as Wilmsdorf, is a sołectwo (administrative village unit) located in the Opole Voivodeship, within the Gmina Byczyna. It boasts a rich history and traditions. The first recorded mention of the settlement dates back to 1393, when it was referred to as "Wilhelmsdorff," a name later transformed into "Dobiercice." The village's name originates from the German "Wilhelmsdorf," meaning "William's village," while the Polish form "Dobiercice" emerged only in the 18th century, likely as a distortion of "Dobrocice." In 1945, after the end of World War II, Dobiercice became a new settlement for displaced persons, including Poles from Wierzbowiec in the Tarnopol Voivodeship. Architecturally, the village is distinguished by the Basilica-style Church of St. John of Dukla, built in 1861, which was originally Evangelical, and a manor-farm complex from the 19th/20th century. The 19th-century manor park, a protected monument, has been partially restored with EU funding. Numerous historic houses and farm buildings have also been preserved in the village, contributing to its cultural heritage. The local community in Dobiercice is vibrant, with an active village library and a women's rural circle. Despite its small population, a slight increase has been noted in recent years, which bodes well for the future. An interesting fact is that the Polish education system was introduced here in 1947, and an elementary school was organized in a new building. Dobiercice has a complex history that reflects the political and socio-cultural changes of the region, and its current residents cherish traditions while striving to improve the quality of life in their village.