Starogard

Starogard, known in German as Stargordt, is a village located in the West Pomeranian Voivodeship, within Łobez County, in the municipality of Resko. Situated at the intersection of regional roads and a railway line, the village boasts a rich history dating back to the 12th century, when a defensive castle was built here. In the Middle Ages, the settlement was endowed to the Order of St. John, and in the first half of the 16th century, it passed into the hands of the von Borck family, who constructed a defensive manor and a church, later transforming them into a magnificent residence in the 19th century. The von Borck family palace was one of the wealthiest in Pomerania, renowned for its valuable art and book collections. After World War II, the palace fell into ruin due to war-related causes; the Russians burned it down in retaliation for violence against women. Starogard features a preserved 17th-century church, distinguished by its half-timbered structure and Baroque tower. The church interior contains valuable elements, such as an 18th-century pulpit. The manor park, originally established as a Baroque garden, was transformed into a landscape park with an obelisk commemorating Helena von Borck. The village also gained significance as the administrative center of the municipality from 1945 to 1954. Important historical events associated with Starogard include the entry of the Red Army in 1945, which led to the destruction of the palace and tragic events involving the local residents. Starogard is an important part of the cultural heritage of the region, and its history is rich in diverse architectural and socio-cultural aspects.