Siemiatycze

Gmina Siemiatycze, located in the Podlaskie Voivodeship, is a rural administrative unit with its seat in the town of Siemiatycze. Between 1975 and 1998, it belonged to the Białystok Voivodeship. In 2014, the municipality had a population of 6,229, which decreased to 6,087 by the end of 2019. Covering an area of 227.14 km², the gmina is characterized by a significant share of agricultural land (71%) and forested areas (22%), making up 15.56% of the total area of Siemiatycze County. Demographically, in 1921, the municipality was home to 7,869 people, with a majority of Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox believers. The area is ethnically diverse, with residents declaring Polish, Belarusian, German, and Jewish national identities. Siemiatycze boasts rich architectural heritage, including numerous traditional rural buildings and religious sites that reflect the region's religious diversity. Among the notable villages within the gmina are Baciki Bliższe and Turna Mała. An interesting aspect of the municipality is its partnership with Gransee in Germany, highlighting its international connections. Gmina Siemiatycze borders other municipalities such as Drohiczyn, Mielnik, and Sarnaki, fostering cultural exchange and interregional cooperation.