Wisniowa

The Wiśniowa Commune, located in the Lesser Poland Voivodeship within Myślenice County, covers an area of 67.06 km², of which 54% is agricultural land and 37% is forested land. The commune is surrounded by neighboring municipalities: Dobczyce, Dobra, Jodłownik, Mszana Dolna, Myślenice, Pcim, and Raciechowice. As a rural commune, Wiśniowa consists of seven villages: Glichów, Kobielnik, Lipnik, Poznachowice Dolne, Węglówka, Wierzbanowa, and Wiśniowa, with the latter serving as the administrative seat. Between 1975 and 1998, the commune belonged to the Kraków Voivodeship. The population of the commune as of June 30, 2004, was 6,780 people, and according to data from December 31, 2019, it increased to 7,412 people. Wiśniowa Commune holds historical and cultural significance, with its current highlight being the Tadeusz Banachiewicz Astronomical Observatory on Mount Lubomir, located near the village of Węglówka. This is the only astronomical observatory in Poland permanently open to visitors. The commune's coat of arms features two comets, commemorating discoveries made at this observatory during the interwar period. Wiśniowa Commune combines aspects of local culture, beautiful recreational areas, and a rich history, making it an interesting place for both settling down and tourist visits.