Kromolow

Kromołów, a village in the Opole Voivodeship, is located in Upper Silesia, within the Racibórz Valley, and is historically tied to the Prudnik Land. First mentioned in 1193 as Cromolov, the village underwent various stages of Germanization of its name, as seen in forms such as Kramelau, Kromolov, and Kramolow. Its name is associated with the word "kram" (market stall), suggesting it may have been a market village. Kromołów has a rich history, with key moments including ties to Cistercian and Norbertine abbeys, as well as destruction caused by the Hussites in 1428. In the 19th century, the village developed, featuring a mill, a bakery, and shops. Kromołów also witnessed the Upper Silesia plebiscite in 1921, where the vast majority of its residents voted in favor of Germany. After World War II, the village came under Polish administration, and its population underwent Polonization. Architecturally, the village stands out with its traditional buildings, including several structures from the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries, a bell tower chapel from the early 20th century, and a fire station. Culturally, Kromołów has local institutions such as a kindergarten and a Volunteer Fire Department, as well as the music group "Alex-Band." The residents are Catholics, belonging to the parish in Brożec. Interestingly, the village has traditions related to the milling and butchery industries and also organizes local cultural events. In recent years, Kromołów has gained tourism interest due to the establishment of the Prudnik Land Tourist Badge. The village is also under the constant care of local police and the Border Guard, underscoring its regional significance.