Ostrzeszów

Ostrzeszów, formerly known as Schildberg, is a town in the Greater Poland Voivodeship with a rich history dating back to the 13th century, when it was granted town rights. Located on the Ostrzeszów Hills, it serves as the seat of both Ostrzeszów County and the local municipality. The town was an important point on the Wrocław-Kalisz-Toruń trade route, and its historical development was closely tied to the presence of the Kazimierzowski Castle, built in the 14th century, and defensive walls that protected the city for centuries. From the 16th to the 18th century, Ostrzeszów became the seat of a county administration (starostwo grodowe) and a venue for noble courts. After the Second Partition of Poland, the town was incorporated into the Prussian Partition, and during World War II, it experienced brutal occupation, resulting in arrests, deportations, and mass murders, including the tragic events known as "Bloody Saturday." The architecture of Ostrzeszów includes the historic Kazimierzowski Castle, which was partially rebuilt after numerous destructions and now serves as a museum, and the Bernardine Church, erected in the 17th century and renowned for its Baroque decorations. The wooden Church of St. Nicholas, an example of traditional architecture, is also noteworthy. Ostrzeszów is also a cultural hub with local media such as "Czas Ostrzeszowski" and various sports organizations. The town maintains partnerships with cities like Stuhr and Blankenburg. Local schools and the library, which has been expanding its collection since 1946, actively engage the community, attracting numerous readers. Protected areas such as the Ostrzeszów Hills highlight the town's natural values. Ostrzeszów is a city with a rich history, culture, and architecture that reflect the transformations it has undergone over the centuries.