Myślenice County

Myślenice County, located in the Lesser Poland Voivodeship, was established in 1999 as part of the administrative reform. Its capital is the town of Myślenice, and the county comprises the urban-rural municipalities of Dobczyce, Myślenice, and Sułkowice, as well as the rural municipalities of Lubień, Pcim, Raciechowice, Siepraw, Tokarnia, and Wiśniowa. At the end of 2019, the county was home to approximately 127,600 people, and by June 2020, the population had increased to 128,900. The region is predominantly Roman Catholic, with 39 parishes, and also hosts Protestant communities and Jehovah's Witnesses with two congregations. Myślenice County stands out for its architectural richness, including historical buildings from various eras that attract tourists. Notable among these is the historic Dobczyce Castle, which played an important defensive role in the Middle Ages and remains a regional attraction today. The area also boasts rich cultural traditions and festivals, including events related to folklore and local customs, which help preserve local identity. Myślenice County is bordered by the counties of Kraków, Wieliczka, Bochnia, Limanowa, Nowy Targ, Sucha, and Wadowice, making it part of a larger, culturally and scenically diverse region of Lesser Poland. Residents also value the natural beauty of the area, with its mountainous terrain, forests, and rivers providing excellent opportunities for hiking and cycling, further enriching the county's tourist appeal. Interestingly, Myślenice is not only a town with a rich history but also a dynamically developing urban center that attracts investment and new residents. The region features a diverse demographic structure reflecting different generations and their needs, as well as a multicultural heritage that enriches the local community.