Sokołów Małopolski

Sokołów Małopolski, located in the Podkarpackie Voivodeship, is a town with a rich history and numerous attractions. Its name likely derives from a falconry school established here in the 14th century. The town was a hub of vibrant trade, situated at the crossroads of important trade routes. It was officially founded in 1569, with an urban plan centered around a main square. In the 17th century, Sokołów developed dynamically, becoming a center for crafts, though numerous fires and invasions, including destruction caused by the troops of George II Rákóczi, hindered its growth. After the Austrian partitions, the town began to rebuild, gaining some administrative and cultural significance. However, tragic events, such as the great fire of 1904, which destroyed most of its buildings, negatively impacted its development. Among Sokołów's architectural treasures are the Neo-Gothic Church of St. John the Baptist, the town hall from 1907, and the new synagogue, which was converted into a cultural center after the war. Sokołów also has a Jewish cemetery with tombstones from the 17th to 20th centuries, bearing witness to its once-thriving Jewish community. In the cultural sphere, the Town and Commune Cultural Center and the Association of Lovers of the Sokołów Land are active. The town is also known for its sports traditions, particularly in football, and in the summer, triathlons and street runs are organized. An interesting fact is that Sokołów Małopolski was historically a private town, owned by various noble families over the centuries. Today, Sokołów blends its historical and cultural heritage with modernity, offering residents and tourists rich recreational opportunities, including cycling and running trails on the outskirts of the town.