Wielkie Staniszcze

Staniszcze Wielkie is a village located in the Opole Voivodeship, within the Strzelce County, in the municipality of Kolonowskie. It boasts a rich history dating back to the 14th century when it was founded under Polish law. The name of the locality derives from the Old Polish word "stanica," meaning a stopping place, which confirms its historical character as a village associated with travelers. Today, the village is home to 1,169 residents and lacks major industrial plants. However, it offers well-developed social infrastructure, including a fire station, a football club, a school, and a kindergarten. Architecturally, it is distinguished by the parish church of St. Charles Borromeo, built in the Neo-Gothic style between 1883 and 1884, which is a listed heritage monument. The history of the village is also linked to Count Colonna, who built a hunting lodge here in the 17th century, and to the activities of the Servant Sisters of the Immaculate Conception, who ran a convent in Staniszcze in the 20th century. The village played a significant role in the 1921 plebiscite, where the majority of its inhabitants voted in favor of Poland. Interestingly, during the Third Silesian Uprising, Staniszcze Wielkie remained in the hands of the insurgents. Local traditions also enliven the community, including the activities of the German Minority Circle and cultural initiatives tied to the local social life.