Książ Wielki

Książ Wielki is a town located in the Lesser Poland Voivodeship, in Miechów County, which regained its town status on January 1, 2023, after long-standing efforts. The history of the settlement dates back to at least 1120, when it was mentioned in the Cistercian monastery in Jędrzejów. Książ Wielki was originally a ducal settlement and received town rights in 1370; however, it lost this status in 1870 as a result of the Partitions of Poland. The architecture of Książ is distinguished by numerous monuments, including the Church of St. Adalbert, the Church of the Holy Spirit with its former monastic building, as well as a palace complex with a garden, walls, and a park. Książ Wielki was a known center of Calvinism in the 16th century and a venue for religious synods. In the 14th and 15th centuries, popular fairs were held here, and the town served as a county seat, which elevated its regional importance. In the 20th century, Książ was a place of active social life; it had a cooperative bank, an agricultural circle, and schools. During World War II, Książ Wielki experienced dramatic events, including the establishment of a ghetto and the pacification of the town by the Gestapo. Today, Książ Wielki is a locality with a rich history, where attention should be paid to its cultural heritage, local social activists, and artists such as Aleksandra Dobrowolska or the painter Stefan Żechowski, after whom the local middle school is named. Książ Wielki has changed its administrative affiliation multiple times, and after World War II, it became the seat of the municipality. The town is situated on the Nidzica River, near Miechów, and is currently developing its infrastructure and sports life through the activities of the SKS Jastrzębiec club. Książ Wielki, with its centuries-old history, showcases architectural, social, and cultural richness that attracts the attention of both residents and tourists.