Kalisz County

Kalisz County, located in the Greater Poland Voivodeship, boasts a rich history dating back to the 14th century. The county was part of the Kalisz Voivodeship until 1793 and again between 1816 and 1837, with its borders changing over the centuries. It was dissolved in 1975 but reinstated in 1999. Architecturally, the region is distinguished by numerous historic churches and wooden roadside shrines. Notable structures include the mausoleum of Prince Józef Zajączek in Opatówek and the Museum of Industrial History, housed in the former Adolf Fiedler factory. Kalisz, the county seat, has a history stretching back to Roman times and is one of the oldest cities in Poland. Kalisz County is characterized by a high proportion of rural population, contributing to its agricultural character. The local economy is based on agriculture, and the unemployment rate in 2019 was just 2.1%. Many residents are engaged in traditional farming, which shapes the cultural identity of the region. Notable tourist attractions include Lake Pokrzywnickie, the nature reserve in the Brzeziny municipality, and the hippodrome in Jarantów, reflecting the area’s diverse recreational offerings. The county borders several other counties, fostering cultural and economic exchange within the region. Attention should also be paid to local legends and historical figures, such as Augustyn Kordecki and Maria Dąbrowska, who highlight the cultural heritage of this area.