Rudka

Rudka is a rural municipality located in the Podlaskie Voivodeship, within Bielsk County. Between 1975–1976 and 1992–1998, the municipality was part of the Białystok Voivodeship. Its administrative seat is the village of the same name. According to data from December 2019, Rudka was home to 1,868 residents, reflecting a population decline compared to 2004, when the population stood at 2,327 people. The municipality of Rudka has a rich history, having existed in various administrative forms four times since 1867. The first municipality was established as a result of municipal reform, and its territory was dissolved in 1934 when it was incorporated into other municipalities. Between 1952 and 1954, the municipality was reestablished, and in 1973 it was formed for the third time, consisting of 12 village councils (sołectwa). Finally, the municipality of Rudka has been functioning since 1992, with changes to its village councils occurring in 1994 and 2001. Agricultural land constitutes 51% of the municipality's area, while forests cover 42%, contributing to its rural character. In 1921, the municipality had 4,534 inhabitants, mostly Poles, and subsequent statistics show a continuing decline in population. Rudka includes village councils such as Karp, Koce Borowe, Niemyje, and Rudka, as well as the settlement of Józefin, which does not have village council status. The municipality borders Brańsk, Ciechanowiec, Grodzisk, and Kluków. Architecturally and culturally, Rudka reflects the local way of life, influenced mainly by traditional and rural elements. It is worth noting the diverse demographics and heritage that have developed over the centuries, despite the declining population. With its rich administrative and cultural history, Rudka remains an important part of the region, offering beautiful surroundings for living and spending time together in a natural environment.