Rabowice

Rabowice is a sołectwo (administrative village unit) located in the Greater Poland Voivodeship, within the Gmina Swarzędz, with a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages. Once owned by the Commandery of the Knights Hospitaller, the village has its roots in the 16th century, when it was first mentioned under its original name, Rawowice. Over the years, various versions of the name appeared, with the contemporary form Rabowice becoming established at the turn of the 18th and 19th centuries. Rabowice is home to significant architectural monuments, including an Evangelical cemetery dating from around 1870 and two early 20th-century houses that are under conservation protection. Numerous archaeological sites have been discovered within the village, providing evidence of settlement dating back to the Neolithic and Bronze Ages. The village was known for its fertile soils, which favored agriculture. In the 18th century, after depopulation caused by wars, German farmers were settled here. Following the confiscation of church properties by the Prussians in 1798, Rabowice became part of the state domain, which led to changes in land distribution. During the 19th century, the village was a site of subhastation (forced auctions), where the number and size of farms frequently changed. The name Rabowice was changed to Reizenstein during World War II. Throughout this period, Polish residents remained in place, while some Germans sold their properties. After the war, changes in village administration took place, and Kowalak became the first sołtys (village head). Today, Rabowice has an active Village Women’s Circle (Koło Gospodyń Wiejskich) and several industrial plants that contribute to the local economy. The village benefits from well-developed transport links to nearby towns. Currently part of the Parish of St. Hedwig in Siekierki Wielkie, Rabowice has a stable population with slight growth and serves as an active community hub, featuring a village community center for residents.