Garbno

Garbno, a village in the Warmian-Masurian Voivodeship, boasts a rich history dating back to the 14th century, when a wooden-earth guard post was built on a hill, marking the beginning of the settlement. The name of the village comes from the Old Prussian language and means "Lagisa's Hill." In the Middle Ages, the village consisted of service estates and a rent-paying settlement, and until 1945 it was within the borders of Germany. Garbno was home to a Gothic church dedicated to St. Anne, built at the turn of the 14th and 15th centuries. In later periods, it converted to Protestantism and became a pilgrimage site. The church was severely damaged in 1945, likely due to the detonation of ammunition stored in a nearby forest, which led to its ruin. However, some relics have survived, such as a holy water font moved to the church in Lwowiec and a bell that appeared in the Orthodox parish in Kętrzyn. For centuries, the inhabitants of Garbno were engaged in activities such as salt trading and agriculture. An interesting aspect of the village is the remnants from World War II, including the ruins of a former shooting range and ammunition depots, which attract history enthusiasts. Garbno also stands out for its rich natural values, such as surrounding forests and wetland areas, which help preserve local flora and fauna. Despite significant destruction, the village has retained its unique character and historical heritage, with intriguing connections to Prussian cults and local legends. Today, Garbno is frequently visited by history and nature enthusiasts, offering glimpses into the past through architectural ruins, archaeological finds, and local traditions.