Słoków

Słoków, also known as Schlogwitz, is a picturesque village located in the Opole Voivodeship, within the Lubrza commune, historically part of Upper Silesia. Established in the 14th century, the first records of the settlement date back to 1379. The village was originally owned by the Kornitz family and later passed into the hands of the von Wittenburg family. In 1732, Count Mettich built a palace for his wife, which, despite the passage of time, has not survived to the present day; its ruins were destroyed in the 1960s. The 18th-19th century palace complex included not only the palace but also a granary, a chapel-belfry, and a park. Although many structures no longer exist, Słoków retains other historical monuments, such as the 14th-century rural layout and 19th and 20th-century buildings, including residential and residential-farm structures. Słoków has a rich history, reflecting both German and Polish influences, as evidenced by the results of plebiscites from the early 20th century. After World War II, the village's population was largely replaced; repatriates from the Eastern Borderlands settled here. The village underwent significant demographic changes, with a population of 91 people at the end of 2013. The local culture is strongly tied to Catholicism, with residents belonging to the Parish of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Olbrachcice. An important landmark in Słoków's history is the monument commemorating the villagers who died in World War I and World War II, erected in the 1920s. As a border village, Słoków lies near the Czech Republic, adding to its appeal as a tourist and cultural destination. The village offers local transport connections and the opportunity to earn a tourist badge from PTTK, encouraging active exploration of the region. From a security perspective, Słoków is under the care of the Border Guard and local police. Notable figures born in Słoków include Gustav von Wittenburg, a nobleman, and Rudolf von Wittenburg, a cavalry captain, highlighting the historical significance of the Wittenburg family in the area. Słoków is a place steeped in history, worth exploring for its monuments, local culture, and traditions.