Stęszew

Stęszew, located in the Greater Poland Voivodeship, is a town with a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages. First mentioned in 1315, it was granted town rights in 1370. In the medieval period, Stęszew was an important trade hub, and its dynamic growth was primarily driven by crafts and commerce. The town changed owners multiple times, including well-known noble families, and in the 17th century, it was associated with tragic events such as the trial of the witch Regina Boroszka. In the 19th century, Stęszew had a population of 1,506, including over 1,300 Catholics. Architecturally, it boasts landmarks such as the 15th-century Holy Trinity parish church, built in the Baroque style, and the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Stęszew from 1905. The town is surrounded by picturesque lakes and borders Wielkopolski National Park, making it a popular tourist destination. Stęszew offers cycling routes and educational trails. Transportation is facilitated by national and regional roads, as well as a railway station. Stęszew is a partner town to the German city of Zahna and the French commune of Pleine-Fougères, highlighting its openness to international cooperation. An interesting fact is the existence of a plaque commemorating the former Evangelical Church of St. Sophia, which reflects the town’s diverse religious history.