Lochów

Łochów is an urban-rural municipality located in the Masovian Voivodeship, within Węgrów County. Its administrative seat is the town of Łochów, and until 1998, the municipality belonged administratively to the Siedlce Voivodeship. The population was 17,446 in 2004, and by the end of 2017, it had increased to 17,922 residents. Łochów is one of the largest municipalities in Węgrów County, consisting of 32 village councils (sołectwa). Recent administrative changes led to the creation of a new village council, Samotrzask, and modifications to the boundaries of existing ones, such as Ogrodniki, Ostrówek, and Zagrodniki. The area of Łochów Municipality is 194.98 km², of which 50% is agricultural land and 38% is forested. The municipality covers 15.99% of the entire county's area. Local authorities invest in the development of infrastructure and the preservation of cultural heritage, which fosters the integration of local communities. From a demographic perspective, the municipality features a diverse age pyramid, which is important for planning future social and cultural initiatives. Among the village councils of Łochów, notable localities include Baczki, Barchów, Dąbrowa, and Pogorzelec, each with its unique architectural and historical values. The municipality is also surrounded by other municipalities, such as Brańszczyk, Jadów, Korytnica, and Sadowne, enabling the development of local tourism and inter-municipal cooperation. Interestingly, despite previous administrative divisions, the municipality maintains its integrity and unique character. Various cycling paths and hiking trails run through its territory, promoting an active lifestyle for both residents and tourists. Łochów is a place that boasts both natural beauty and a rich history, making it an attractive destination for living and visiting.