Okuniew

Okuniew is a village in the Masovian Voivodeship, within the Mińsk County, boasting a rich history dating back to medieval times. Once a town with municipal rights granted in 1538, it lost this status in 1869. The Jewish community began settling in Okuniew in the 18th century, establishing a Jewish community with its own synagogue. The village is situated in a picturesque area near Warsaw, close to the Długa and Ząza rivers. Its location makes it attractive for tourism, featuring a blue trail leading to the nearby Masovian Landscape Park. Architecturally, the standout is the Parish Church of St. Stanislaus Kostka, built between 1828 and 1835 and likely designed by Jakub Kubicki. This masonry church features Tuscan pilasters and rich 18th-century furnishings. Also of interest are the ruins of the 19th-century Łubieński Palace and the parish cemetery with its Neoclassical chapel. During World War II, Okuniew became a site of tragedy when German occupiers deported its Jewish population to Warsaw. Today, the village retains the character of a small town, with the Market Square as the center of social life. It is home to cultural institutions such as the Community Center, sports associations, and a horse stud farm. Notably, the sculptor Abraham Ostrzega and Adolf Lortsch, an owner of oil fields, were born in Okuniew. Between 1991 and 2006, a regional brewery operated here but could not survive the competition. After the war, the area was incorporated into a military training ground, which limited its development. Okuniew is also known for its sports and cultural traditions, hosting numerous local events.