Henryk Sienkiewicz Mound in Okrzeja

The Henryk Sienkiewicz Mound is located in Okrzeja and was constructed between 1932 and 1938 as a tribute to the renowned Polish writer, who was born in the nearby village of Wola Okrzejska. Its construction was financially supported by residents from all over Poland and the American Polonia community. The dedication ceremony took place on October 2, 1938, with the participation of approximately 20,000 people, including Sienkiewicz's children. The mound stands 15 meters tall, has a base diameter of 45 meters, and consists of 6,000 m³ of soil, some of which was brought from locations significant to the writer's life. At the summit stands a 2.7-meter-high monument of Sienkiewicz, unveiled in 1980. From the top, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding area. The mound is listed in the municipal register of historical monuments, highlighting its cultural significance. In 2021, the mound underwent revitalization, which included the creation of new pathways but also controversially involved clearing the area of greenery, sparking public opposition. Nearby, in Wola Okrzejska, there is a museum dedicated to Sienkiewicz, opened in 1966, which emphasizes the local literary and cultural heritage associated with the writer. The mound is an important landmark in Polish literature and serves as a symbol of remembrance for Sienkiewicz and his impact on Poland's cultural identity.