Siemiatycze County

Siemiatycze County, established in 1999, is located in the southern part of the Podlaskie Voivodeship, bordering Belarus and other counties of Podlaskie, Lublin, and Masovian Voivodeships. Its seat is the town of Siemiatycze, and the county is inhabited by approximately 43,000 people. The county consists of nine municipalities, including the urban municipality of Siemiatycze and the urban-rural municipality of Drohiczyn. The county boasts a rich cultural heritage, with strong Orthodox influences and the presence of a Belarusian minority. Two significant towns in the region are Siemiatycze and Drohiczyn, featuring historical buildings that reflect the area's rich past. Geographically, the county is characterized by the flat and gently rolling terrain of the Drohiczyn Heights, with a significant amount of forest cover accounting for 32% of its area. Fragments of the primeval Mielnik Forest have been preserved here, along with several valuable nature reserves, such as the Grąd Radziwiłłowski, Góra Uszeście, and Sokóle, which protect unique plant habitats, including old-growth forests. These areas are also attractive for tourism, with numerous trails like the Bug River Trail and the Moszczona Valley Trail offering stunning views and opportunities to explore local attractions. Siemiatycze County also has an interesting history. After the Third Partition of Poland, it became part of Prussia, and in 1807, it came under Russian jurisdiction. After 1918, the area was incorporated into the Białystok Voivodeship. Between 1975 and 1998, the county was dissolved but was reestablished in 1999, restoring its historical identity. A significant event in the region was the battle of the January Uprising, which is commemorated in one of the local tourist trails. The culture of Siemiatycze County is enriched by local traditions and the presence of various ethnic groups, making it a unique place on the map of Poland. The county is rich in natural and cultural resources, offering numerous opportunities for tourists and residents alike. It is also worth noting that in 2019, the unemployment rate in the region was 5.8%, indicating a relatively low level of unemployment compared to other regions. Siemiatycze County, with its unique history, rich cultural heritage, and natural beauty, certainly deserves attention and interest.