Grabina

Grabina, also known as Grabine, is a village located in the Opole Voivodeship, within the municipality of Biała, situated in Upper Silesia in the Racibórz Valley. The historical roots of the locality date back to the 13th century, when it was part of the Biała castellany. The village boasts a rich history that has evolved over the centuries, including periods under the Habsburg Monarchy and the Kingdom of Prussia. A significant event in Grabina's history was the parcelation of the landed estate in 1842, after which the village developed by establishing a school and a church, as well as constructing a convent for the Elizabethan Sisters. Architecturally, the standout features of the village include the Parish Church of Our Lady of the Scapular, a Social Welfare Home, and school buildings. The inhabitants of Grabina, predominantly Polish with a significant German minority, preserve the local dialect and culture, supporting various organizations such as the German Circle of Friendship and the Upper Silesian Association. The village has been home to many notable figures, such as Karol Koziołek, a national activist, and Jan Augustyn, a farmer and social worker. Grabina is characterized by a moderate climate, significant natural diversity, and a transport system currently provided by neighboring regional bus services. Interestingly, the village faced persecution during World War II, and after the war, it became part of Poland, where residents, who were fluent in Polish, were allowed to remain in their homeland. Today, Grabina participates in programs aimed at village renewal and strengthening the local community. The village is also a tourist attraction with cycling and hiking trails, further contributing to the development of local trade and services.