Węgorzewo County

Węgorzewo County, located in the Warmian-Masurian Voivodeship, was established in 2002 from a part of Giżycko County, with its seat in the town of Węgorzewo. The county consists of the urban-rural gmina of Węgorzewo and the rural gminas of Budry and Pozezdrze. It covers an area of 693 km² and, according to 2020 data, had a population of 22,555 people. Demographically, the county is characterized by an aging population, and in 2011, the Ukrainian minority accounted for 6.1% of its residents. Węgorzewo, known for the architectural remains of the Teutonic Knights' Angerburg Castle, has a rich history dating back to the 14th century. The castle, built in 1312, served as the administrative center of the region and witnessed numerous changes in territorial allegiance – including being under Polish rule from 1466 to 1657. Węgorzewo and its surroundings have also been the site of intensive administrative transformations throughout history, as illustrated by a detailed timeline that includes the reforms of 1945 and subsequent changes, such as the establishment of Węgorzewo County in 2002. It is worth noting that Węgorzewo County has a relatively high unemployment rate of 12.2%, while the region is renowned for its beautiful landscapes and water tourism, attracting numerous visitors.