Krapkowice County

Krapkowice County, located in the Opole Voivodeship, was established in 1999, but its history dates back to the mid-20th century when the county was first created on January 1, 1956. The seat of the county is Krapkowice, and its area is inhabited by over 63,000 people. The county comprises the urban-rural municipalities of Gogolin, Krapkowice, Strzeleczki, and Zdzieszowice, as well as the rural municipality of Walce, reflecting the region's diverse administrative character. Historically, the county lies in Upper Silesia, considering the rich economic traditions and trade routes that intersected in this area, such as those leading from Scandinavia to the Balkans. It is worth noting that Krapkowice and neighboring towns, such as Otmęt and Gogolin, were part of different counties until 1956. Krapkowice County underwent several administrative changes, including the introduction of municipalities in 1973 and the 1999 reform, which reinstated it as an administrative unit with borders similar to the current ones. In an architectural context, the region boasts numerous monuments that reflect its rich cultural heritage, such as historic buildings and churches that attract tourists. Krapkowice, as the main center, maintains local traditions and organizes various cultural events that bring the community together. The county heads have included Joachim Czernek, Albert Macha, and Maciej Sonik, showcasing the political changes that have taken place in the region. Neighboring counties, such as Opole, Strzelce, Kędzierzyn-Koźle, and Prudnik, influence local dynamics. Interestingly, Krapkowice County once had strong economic ties between local towns, fostering integration and joint development, and today, cooperation between municipalities continues in various forms, contributing to the region's growth. The county is also a place where residents can engage with regional references to the history of Upper Silesia through preserved traditions and cultural activities.