Giżycko County

Giżycki County, located in the Warmian-Masurian Voivodeship, was established in 1999 as a result of the administrative reform. Its capital is the town of Giżycko, known for its picturesque lakes, making it a popular tourist destination. The county includes urban municipalities (Giżycko), urban-rural municipalities (Ryn), and rural municipalities (Giżycko, Kruklanki, Miłki, Wydminy). Giżycko, with a rich history dating back to Prussian times, derives its name from the Old Prussian word "Giż," which refers to the berries growing in the area. The heart of the county is Lake Niegocin, which attracts sailors and beachgoers. Architecturally, the region abounds in historical sites, such as the Teutonic castle in Giżycko, which is a testament to its rich past. Giżycki County also holds significant cultural importance, with various events and festivals promoting local traditions and crafts. In 2002, part of the county's territory was used to create Węgorzewski County, and the municipality of Banie Mazurskie was transferred to Gołdapski County. Fully leveraging its natural assets, the county facilitates tourism development, which impacts the local economy. Despite a decline in population from 88,899 in 1999 to 56,456 in 2020, Giżycko and its surroundings still offer a wealth of attractions and beautiful landscapes that testify to the enduring appeal of this part of Poland. The county council, consisting of 17 councilors, is responsible for managing the region, and the executive body, the county board, headed by Starosta Mirosław Drzażdżewski, makes key decisions regarding local development. The county borders several others, fostering regional cooperation and cultural exchange. Interestingly, Giżycko, often called the "sailing capital of Poland," hosts regattas and events for water sports enthusiasts every year and is also famous for its beautiful cycling routes, making it a haven for active tourists.