Rajcza

Rajcza is a village located in the Silesian Voivodeship, within the Rajcza municipality, situated in the Beskid Żywiecki mountain range. Historically, the village dates back to the 17th century as a Vlach settlement, and its development accelerated in the 19th century with the establishment of ironworks and a school, as well as the construction of a railway line connecting Vienna and Krakow in 1884. Rajcza features several hiking trails, two of which were marked by the Upper Silesian Branch of the Polish Tatra Society in the 1920s. The village gained popularity as a summer resort and skiing center during the interwar period. At that time, various social organizations were active, and community life was supported by local scouting troops and the Riflemen's Association. Rajcza was home to a significant Jewish community, which dominated trade and services. After World War II, the village experienced population displacements and economic transformations, which impacted its demographic and economic structure. Local landmarks include the parish church of St. Lawrence, the palace complex of Karl Stefan Habsburg, and a landscape park with natural monuments. Elements of Jewish culture, such as historic houses and a cemetery, have also been preserved in Rajcza. Many notable figures were born here, including the Catholic clergyman Franciszek Bryja and engineer Oskar Primavesi. With its rich history and numerous tourist attractions, Rajcza is an important point on the regional map, appealing to both tourists and residents.