Kielce County

Kielce County, established in 1999, is not only the largest county in the Świętokrzyskie Voivodeship but also a region rich in nature and history. Its capital is Kielce, a dynamic administrative and cultural center. The county comprises nineteen municipalities, including ten urban-rural ones, and covers an area of 2,247 km². The region is home to numerous nature reserves, landscape parks, and natural monuments, including the thousand-year-old "Bartek" oak tree in Zagnańsk. The mountainous terrain and high forest coverage favor agritourism, attracting both domestic and international tourists. The area is full of marked tourist trails, making it an attractive destination for hikers and cyclists. Kielce County boasts a range of architectural attractions, including the castles in Chęciny and numerous religious sites that bear witness to the region's history. The local culture is reflected in numerous festivals and events, such as the Świętokrzyski Fair and Świętokrzyski Strawberry Day, which draw both locals and tourists. The county is also known for its rich fauna and flora, with diverse ecosystems supporting many rare plant and animal species. It is worth noting that Kielce County also has valuable mineral deposits, making it an economically significant area. The region perfectly combines tourist attractions with agricultural values, where organic production and agritourism play an important role in the local economy. In Kielce County, festivals—both cultural and related to regional traditions—are an integral part of social life, while diverse landscapes and numerous nature conservation areas attract nature lovers and enthusiasts of active recreation.