Jarocin

Jarocin is a town in west-central Poland, in the Greater Poland Voivodeship, with a rich history dating back to the 13th century. The first written records of the town appear in documents from 1257, although its official founding is believed to have taken place in the last quarter of that century. Once an important craft and trade center, Jarocin has always been a place where major trade routes intersected. The town is situated in the picturesque South Greater Poland Lowland and is characterized by a mild climate. Jarocin's architecture includes numerous historic monuments, such as the Church of St. Martin from 1610, the town hall built between 1799 and 1804, and the Radoliński Palace and Park Complex. Within this complex lies the Skarbczyk (Treasury), a remnant of a medieval castle, and the ruins of the Gothic Church of the Holy Spirit from 1516. Jarocin was also known for its music festivals, most notably the rock festival whose origins date back to 1970. Today, the town has gained a reputation as a cultural hub, hosting diverse events such as the Sounds of Freedom Festival and local music events. In 2011, a monument of a "booter" (glan) was unveiled in Jarocin, symbolizing the town's connection to rock culture. Jarocin is also home to several pilgrimage sites, including the Church of Christ the King and the Evangelical-Augsburg Cemetery from 1777. Over the centuries, Jarocin has gone through various stages of development—from the partitions of Poland, through World War II, to modern times, when it has become an important transportation hub. In 2018, the town carried out numerous housing investments as part of the "Mieszkanie Plus" (Housing Plus) program, becoming a leader in this field in Poland. A wide range of sports and cultural activities, plans for urban revitalization, and the development of transport infrastructure reflect the dynamic nature of the town, which successfully blends historical heritage with modernity. Jarocin, under the patronage of St. Martin, is a place with a fascinating history, rich culture, and active community life, attracting both residents and tourists.