Międzybrodzie Żywieckie

Międzybrodzie Żywieckie is a picturesque village located on the southeastern shore of Lake Międzybrodzkie, in the valley of the Isepnica stream, in the region of the Little Beskids Mountains. The history of the village dates back to the 16th century when settlers began clearing forests and establishing foothill settlements. The name "Międzybrodzie" comes from the salt and copper trade route where merchants had to wade across the Soła River. The village belonged to the Duchy of Oświęcim, and in the 19th century, it was part of the parish in Stary Żywiec. In Międzybrodzie, winter schooling was conducted, and in 1910, the first primary school was established. An architectural landmark that attracts tourists is the old school building, which is still used today as a kindergarten. In the second half of the 20th century, Międzybrodzie gained vitality with the construction of the Porąbka-Żar pumped-storage power plant and the modern cable car to Żar, built on the tracks of the former glider lift. Thanks to the unique thermal conditions on the slopes of Żar, the village became a gliding center, and in 1949, it hosted the International Gliding Competitions of the People's Democracies. For years, the village has attracted tourists, especially enthusiasts of water and winter sports. An interesting fact is the optical illusion on the road leading to the summit of Żar, where objects appear to roll uphill, as well as the presence of a specialized gliding school in Międzybrodzie. The local Roman Catholic Church, the Parish of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, actively engages in community life. Międzybrodzie Żywieckie is an ideal destination for tourists seeking attractions both in summer and winter, making it a popular holiday spot with numerous vacation homes.