Wielkie Koszyce

Koszyce Wielkie, a village in the Lesser Poland Voivodeship, boasts a rich history dating back to the Neolithic period, with visible traces of settlement from various eras, including the Przeworsk culture. The first mention of the village dates from 1358–1362, and from 1361 its owners are known, including Wincenty of Koszyce and later the Rokosz family. In the 17th century, the village belonged to Stanisław Jordan, and in the 18th century, it passed into the hands of Stanisław Łętowski. In 1780, a brick bridge was built over the Biała River, which was crucial for transportation. In the 19th century, Koszyce Wielkie became part of the Sanguszko latifundium, and its development was linked to industry, including the operation of a liqueur factory, highlighting its local industrial character. During World War I, the bridge was set on fire by the Austrians, symbolizing the impending Russian occupation. After the war, plans were made to build industrial plants to strengthen the local economy. In 1929, the municipality of Mościce was formed from surrounding villages. From a cultural perspective, the Volunteer Fire Department, established in 1912, plays a significant role as an important social center. Modern administrative changes, including the incorporation of part of Koszyce into Tarnów in the 1970s, influenced the region's development. In 2002, the sports club KS "Koszyce" was founded, and in 2011, the Village Center was opened, enriching the local recreational infrastructure. The history of Koszyce Wielkie also includes the establishment of a parish in the 1980s, which contributed to the social unity of the residents. An interesting fact is the discovery of rock salt during oil exploration, indicating the area's geological richness. The village's name refers to the local tradition of making wicker baskets, as reflected in the village seal from the early 20th century. Koszyce Wielkie is an example of a village with significant cultural, architectural, and historical heritage in the region.