Kunów

Kunów is a town in Poland, located in the Świętokrzyskie Voivodeship, on the Kamienna River, with a rich history dating back to early Slavic times. It was granted town rights multiple times, including in 1365 and again in 1990. The town served as the seat of the Kraków bishopric, which contributed to its development, particularly in the 15th century when Cardinal Zbigniew Oleśnicki significantly expanded it. Kunów was home to stone quarries that gained fame throughout Poland, supplying materials for the construction of renowned manors and palaces. In the 18th century, the town became state property, and after 1869, it lost its town rights due to events related to the January Uprising. After World War II, Kunów underwent a period of reconstruction and dynamic development, with infrastructure modernization funded by the European Union. Architecturally, Kunów is distinguished by its 17th-century parish church of St. Władysław and a brick bell tower from 1896. The church is surrounded by a stone fence, and its interior is adorned with sculptures crafted by local stonemasons. Other historical landmarks include a Roman Catholic cemetery with 19th-century tombstones and a statue of St. John of Nepomuk from 1755. Interestingly, the 1977 film *Wszyscy i nikt* (Everyone and No One) featured many scenes shot in Kunów, which has increased tourist interest in the area. Kunów is also a place of rich culture and tradition, home to religious communities including a Catholic parish and a Jehovah's Witnesses congregation. Notable figures associated with the town include clergy, artists, and individuals who demonstrated bravery during World War II, such as Marianna Jaworska, who was honored with the title "Righteous Among the Nations." The town also has a sporting tradition, represented by the football club Stal Kunów, founded in 1938. Despite its small size, Kunów plays a significant role in the region, serving as an example of the blend of history, culture, and sports.