Górzno

Górzno, located in the Kuyavian-Pomeranian Voivodeship, is a town with a rich history dating back to the 13th century, when the first mention of the settlement appeared. In the 14th century, a parish was established in Górzno, and the town was granted its first town rights, which contributed to its development. Górzno was an important episcopal center that gained significance in later centuries, even though it was located on the periphery of the Płock diocese and far from major trade routes. From an urban perspective, the town is characterized by a medieval layout of a rectangular market square and narrow streets, inhabited by modest wooden houses. Górzno boasts valuable historical monuments, including the parish church of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, built by the Order of the Holy Sepulchre in the Baroque-Classicist style between 1765 and 1812. This church is unique in the region, as it is the only temple erected by the Order of the Holy Sepulchre in the Dobrzyń Land. Other important structures include the remnants of the residence of the bishops of Płock and old houses preserved from the turn of the 18th and 19th centuries. It is also worth mentioning the Evangelical church, built in the 19th century, which is now in ruins. Górzno also has its place in the history of armed conflicts, as a battle between Swedish and Polish troops took place here in 1629. The town also has sporting achievements, particularly in football, with the women's club Unifreeze Górzno playing in the First League and the men's club Relaks Górzno. The Order of the Holy Sepulchre played a key role in the development of Górzno, running the parish and humanitarian institutions, such as a hospital for the poor, which demonstrates their influence on the local community. Interestingly, Górzno is one of the places where traditions related to the order's activities have survived, and the current church bears traces of their historical heritage. Despite the numerous destructions the town has suffered due to wars and fires, Górzno remains a place with a rich history, traditions, and architectural treasures.