Lwówek Śląski

Lwówek, historically known as Lwowek, is a town in the Greater Poland Voivodeship, within the Nowy Tomyśl County, with a rich history dating back to Roman times. Settlement in the area dates back to around 200 BCE, and the first mentions of Lwówek come from the 15th century. It was established in 1418 and initially named Wojszyno, later changing its name to Lwówek to distinguish it from Lviv in Red Ruthenia. The town went through various phases of development, being owned by families such as the Ostrorogs and the Grudzińskis, and also suffering numerous destructions due to fires. In the 16th century, Lwówek gained a reputation as a beer-brewing center, which influenced its economy. In the 19th century, during the partitions of Poland, it was within the borders of the Kingdom of Prussia, and in 1815 it became part of the Grand Duchy of Posen. The town had its own synagogue, Catholic and Protestant churches, and was a commercial center with regular fairs. During World War II, the Nazi authorities renamed Lwówek to Kirschneustadt. After 1945, it returned to the borders of the Poznań Voivodeship. Lwówek boasts numerous architectural monuments, including the late Gothic Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the late Baroque cemetery Church of the Holy Cross, the former Evangelical church from 1778, and a Baroque palace from 1728. The market square with a 19th-century town hall and historic cobblestones forms the central point of the town. Lwówek is also a venue for numerous fairs, continuing its historical trading traditions. The town's population in 2009 was 2,939, showing that despite changing circumstances, Lwówek remains an active local center. The town engages in international cooperation, further enriching its cultural and historical heritage.