Racibórz County

The Racibórz County, established in 1999, is located in southern Poland, within the Silesian Voivodeship, with its seat in the town of Racibórz. The region boasts a rich history spanning millennia, shaped by the influences of various cultures and nations, including Polish, Silesian, German, and Czech. In the 18th century, the Krzyżanowice Palace was built here, which hosted famous figures such as Liszt and Beethoven, and now belongs to the Congregation of the Franciscan Sisters. Racibórz, the historical capital of Upper Silesia, is renowned for its reconstructed Piast Castle, the Gothic Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and the unique Castle Chapel. The area is also home to numerous museums, including the distinctive Horror Museum in Wojnowice. The county abounds in natural attractions, such as the Arboretum of the Moravian Gate and the "Łężczak" Nature Reserve. Road transport is facilitated by numerous national and regional roads, while proximity to the A1 and A4 motorways and airports in Katowice, Ostrava, and Kraków enhances the region's accessibility. Racibórz County is also a venue for many cultural events, such as the Choral Song Festival and the Racibórz Days, which attract both residents and tourists. The region is deeply tied to industrial history, bordering the mining areas of the Rybnik Coal District and Ostrava. Additional advantages of the county include its spatial layout—the Racibórz Basin, through which the Oder River and numerous tributaries flow. An interesting fact is that Racibórz was the first city in Europe to receive the ISO 14001 certification, reflecting its commitment to environmental care. The county includes towns such as Krzanowice, Kuźnia Raciborska, and Tworków, each with its own monuments and attractions. The local economy is based on agriculture, with a significant portion of the land dedicated to farmland and forests. Undoubtedly, the county is full of diverse architectural, cultural, and historical attractions that draw both tourists and residents.