Siedliszcze

The Siedliszcze Commune, located in the Lublin Voivodeship, Chełm County, boasts a rich history dating back to prehistoric times, as evidenced by archaeological finds from the fourth period of the Bronze Age and a Lusatian culture cemetery discovered in 1967. The name "Siedliszcze" derives from the Old Slavic language and means "to settle," highlighting the long-standing presence of Slavic populations in the area. The locality was first mentioned in 1421 in the context of the established parish of Pawłów, indicating the existence of a developed social structure. Siedliszcze is not only a place with a rich history but also one with diverse landscapes. The commune lies in the Volhynian Polesie, where the western part features a flat landscape with peat bogs, and the eastern part, belonging to the Chełm Hills, is characterized by numerous elevations and depressions. The commune covers an area of 153.9 km², of which 85% is agricultural land, reflecting the local economy. The commune includes many villages, such as Adolfin, Bezek, Chojno, Kamionka, and smaller settlements like Zabitek and Wojciechów. Siedliszcze held administrative significance in various periods, belonging to the Chełm Land until the partitions of Poland and later to Austria as part of Galicia. The modern commune, with a population of approximately 7,107 according to 2004 data, is culturally active, maintaining a partnership with the Ukrainian town of Kuśniszcze, which fosters cultural exchange. The commune is distinguished by its folk traditions and local events that promote the cultural heritage of the region. It is a place where history and tradition intertwine with modernity, making Siedliszcze an interesting point on the map of the Lublin Voivodeship.