Parczew

Parczew is a town in the Lublin Voivodeship, with a population of 10,298 according to 2022 data. Located on the Parczew Plain, it boasts a rich history dating back to 1235, when, according to Jan Długosz, it already existed as an important center. It received town rights in 1401 from Władysław Jagiełło, and in 1413 it became the site of Polish-Lithuanian parliamentary assemblies. The town, known for its three gates and a royal residence, experienced significant development in the 16th century, with numerous religious and economic institutions. Parczew was the seat of a non-grod starostwo, and its political importance declined during the partitions. In the 19th century, the town was revitalized by the construction of a railway line from Lublin to Łuków. In the 20th century, Parczew became a center of conspiracy during World War II, and after the war, despite destruction, it attempted to rebuild its Jewish community. Among the town's monuments are the Neo-Gothic Collegiate Basilica, a wooden bell tower from 1675, and buildings of former synagogues. The cultural landscape of Parczew features recurring events such as Parczew Days and the Jagiellonian Fair, while local institutions like the Parczew Culture Center and the Municipal Public Library support cultural life. Parczew is also a place with beautiful natural attractions, such as nature reserves and educational trails, which attract tourists and ornithologists. The town has established partnerships with Bressuire (France), Luboml (Ukraine), and Prienai (Lithuania), fostering cultural exchange. In 1978, Parczew was awarded the Grunwald Cross II Class, highlighting its historical significance in the country.