Grabowiec

Gmina Grabowiec, located in the Lublin Voivodeship within Zamość County, is a rural administrative unit with its seat in the settlement of Grabowiec. Inhabited by 3,766 people (as of the end of 2021), it is the least populated municipality in Zamość County. Historically, between 1975 and 1998, it was part of the Zamość Voivodeship, and during the time of the Kingdom of Poland, it belonged to Hrubieszów County in the Lublin Governorate. It is worth noting that in 1870, Grabowiec—which had lost its town rights—was incorporated into the gmina. Architecturally, the area is characterized by simple rural buildings, and its landscape is dominated by agricultural land with scattered forests. The gmina is situated at an elevation of over 300 meters above sea level and features numerous water bodies, including the Wolica River and its tributaries, which form wetlands and marshes. The region is also home to nature reserves such as Rogów, which protects rare steppe plants, and Wygon Grabowiecki, inhabited by spotted susliks. Land use in the gmina consists of approximately 85% agricultural land and 10% forested areas. The gmina covers a relatively small portion of the county's total area, amounting to 6.88%. It comprises numerous villages (sołectwa) such as Bereść, Hołużne, Szczelatyn, and Wólka Tuczępska, as well as settlements without formal village status, like Dańczypol. It borders several other gminas, including Kraśniczyn and Miączyn. Grabowiec is also notable for its rich biodiversity, making it an appealing destination for nature enthusiasts and those seeking tranquil surroundings.