Suce

Soce is a historic village located in northeastern Poland, in the Podlaskie Voivodeship, known for its exceptionally well-preserved wooden architecture and traditional spatial layout. The village is inhabited by the indigenous Podlasie Ruthenians, who speak the West Polesian dialect. The history of Soce dates back to the 16th century, with the first mention of the village appearing in 1560. The village was established as a result of royal regulations, and its name is attributed to a small stream in the area. In the 18th century, some of the inhabitants converted to Greek Catholicism, which influenced local rituals. In the 19th century, the residents' financial difficulties led to the establishment of a school, which operated until 1915. After World War I, the village was affected by evacuations due to the front line, and after the war, the residents faced new challenges, including religious ones. During the interwar period, a sectarian movement emerged, and the Adventist community developed. After World War II, population migrations and administrative changes took place. Architecturally, Soce stands out with its two-part linear village layout and rich woodcarving decorations. Numerous wooden residential and farm buildings have been preserved, characterized by a unique style. Soce also features a wooden chapel dedicated to Saint Prophet Elijah and votive crosses. Since 2001, cultural heritage protection projects, such as the Land of Open Shutters, have been implemented. Tourism in Soce is growing thanks to cultural trails and agritourism. In 2016, the Museum of the Village of Soce was inaugurated, and the village attracts interest during numerous cultural events, such as ethnographic workshops and festivals. Every year, the village patron's feast is celebrated, highlighting local traditions. An interesting fact is the unique West Polesian dialect, which is endangered, reflecting social and cultural changes in the region, as well as efforts to preserve local identity in the face of Polonization.