Stawiski

Stawiski, a town located in the Podlaskie Voivodeship on the Dzierzba River, has a population of 2,027 (as of January 1, 2023) and serves as the seat of the urban-rural municipality. Historically, this village, founded by the Kurzątek family of the Awdaniec coat of arms, has existed since at least 1375. Over the centuries, Stawiski was owned by various noble families, and between 1698 and 1702 it gained town rights, although it lost them from 1870 to 1921. Architecturally, notable sites include the late Baroque Church of St. Anthony of Padua, built between 1788 and 1822, and the former Franciscan monastery converted into a parish house. The town also features interesting urban elements, such as a trapezoidal market square originally used for trade. Stawiski was also home to a synagogue, destroyed in 1942, and a Jewish cemetery (kirkut) that was devastated during the war. Historically, the town experienced dramatic events, including fires in 1812 and 1915, as well as the establishment of a ghetto during World War II. A notable figure from Stawiski is Akiba Rubinstein, an outstanding chess player born here. The town engages in cultural life through the Municipal Center of Culture and Sports, which organizes various events and activities for children and adults. In sports, the football team GKS Stawiski has been active since 2008. Transportation is provided by national roads, including the S61 bypass. Stawiski combines rich history, significant architectural monuments, and cultural and sporting activities.