Witaszyce

Witaszyce is a sołectwo (administrative village unit) located in the Greater Poland Voivodeship, within Jarocin County. The history of the village dates back to the 14th century when it was a settlement owned by the bishops of Poznań. It later passed into the hands of Greater Poland magnates and, in the 19th century, German owners, including the von Ohnesorge family. In the central part of the village stands a Neo-Baroque palace built in 1899, designed by architect Ludwig Otte. This historic building, which has been part of the local heritage for decades, long served as the headquarters of the National Institute of Natural Fibers and a branch of the Public Library in Jarocin. In the 2000s, it was privatized and now operates as a hotel and restaurant, with its lavish ballrooms converted into conference halls. Adjacent to the palace is a late-Baroque manor house where the "Convention of Jarosławiec" was ratified. The village is also home to the Museum of the Napoleonic Wars—the only one of its kind in Poland—featuring a rich exhibition dedicated to the Napoleonic era, including detailed battle dioramas. Witaszyce was once known for its industry, being considered the most industrialized village in Poland, with a sugar refinery and various manufacturing plants. Today, however, its industrial sector has significantly declined. The village was also home to the Kairos choir, which brought together local youth and performed regularly during church masses. Culturally, Witaszyce embodies tradition and a strong sense of community, reinforced by the active involvement of the Association for Witaszyce. The village benefits from excellent transport links, situated along National Roads 11 and 12 and a railway line, making it easily accessible for visitors. Thus, Witaszyce attracts not only history enthusiasts but also tourists interested in local culture and architecture, offering diverse attractions set in the picturesque landscape of the Greater Polish countryside.