Kolno

Kolnica, known in its German version as Lichtenberg, is a village located in the Opole Voivodeship, within the Grodków municipality. From a historical perspective, the village was first mentioned in 1242, making it one of the oldest settlements in the region. The main landmark of Kolnica is the Church of St. Lawrence, which was documented as early as 1242 and features a unique octagonal tower standing 34 meters tall, reflecting Gothic architectural influences. The church served both liturgical and defensive purposes, and its robust structure along with numerous windows attest to its historical significance. In Kolnica, residential houses from the 18th and 19th centuries have been preserved, as well as remnants of a medieval castle on Kahleta Hill, although no physical evidence of the castle's existence remains today. The village has German roots, and its history is tied to the colonization of German settlers in Silesia, as well as to Slavic settlement prior to their arrival. In the 19th century, Kolnica experienced development, with its population growing and the village becoming a local cultural center complete with a church, school, and post office. After World War I, the population declined, but the village remained in good condition, characterized by its solid buildings. The Volunteer Fire Department (OSP) in Kolnica was established in 1923 and contributed to ensuring the safety of the residents. An interesting fact is that the Flemish dialect persisted in this region, influencing the local manner of speech. Today, Kolnica has around 700 inhabitants and is divided into an upper and a lower part. After World War II, the village underwent significant changes, and today it stands as a charming settlement with a rich history and architecture that reflect its German origins.