Moniecki County

Moniecki County, located in the Podlaskie Voivodeship, was established in 1999 and has its seat in the town of Mońki. It consists of urban-rural municipalities (Goniądz, Knyszyn, Mońki) and rural municipalities (Jasionówka, Jaświły, Krypno, Trzcianne), with towns and approximately 42,000 inhabitants, accounting for about 3.6% of the population of the Podlaskie Voivodeship. The area of the county is characterized by rich natural and historical heritage, along with significant potential for tourism and agriculture development. Its boundaries are defined by the Lega, Biebrza, and Narew rivers. The county has a rich history, having once been part of the historical Goniądz County and Białystok County. During World War II, it was incorporated into the Soviet Moniecki District. Moniecki County was first established in 1954, then dissolved in 1975, only to be reinstated in 1998. The region's most important tourist asset is the Biebrza National Park, renowned for its scenic hiking and kayaking trails. Nearby lies the Osowiec Fortress, a 19th-century complex of forts, which is now open to visitors. The county also boasts numerous historical monuments, including churches and religious buildings, particularly in Knyszyn and Kalinówka. In Morusy, there is a memorial house dedicated to Włodzimierz Puchalski, a Polish naturalist. The local economy is primarily based on agriculture and the food industry, with various enterprises operating in Mońki, including dairies and bakeries. The unemployment rate stood at 6.5% in September 2019. Religiously, Roman Catholics dominate the region, with significant parishes such as St. Agnes in Goniądz. The county is also home to Jewish cemeteries in Jasionówka, Trzcianne, Goniądz, and Knyszyn. One of the key places of worship is the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Consolation in Krypno, which attracts pilgrims. Transportation in the region relies on railway lines and national roads, with National Road 65 being an important route. Historically, after World War I, the Osowiec Fortress was garrisoned by the Polish Army, and it now serves as an ammunition storage site. The county's territory also encompasses rich natural environments, including the unique Biebrza Marshes and a section of the Knyszyńska Forest, further enhancing the region's natural appeal.