Wizajny

Wiżajny is a rural commune located in northeastern Poland, in the Podlaskie Voivodeship, with its administrative seat in the town of Wiżajny. Historically, it was known as the commune of Wizgury until 1870. The commune covers an area of 122.59 km², dominated by agricultural and forest land. It is characterized by a harsh climate, earning it the nickname "Poland's cold pole," with long, frosty winters and short, hot summers. Extreme temperatures can reach up to +38°C in summer and drop to −36°C in winter. Demographically, the commune is diverse, with a population of 2,677 residents as of June 2008. It comprises numerous villages, including Antosin, Bolcie, Grzybina, Maszutkinie, and Wiżajny. The region also features smaller settlements such as Cisówek and Dziadówek. Interestingly, in 2010, the area including the villages of Jodoziory, Kleszczówek, Polimonie, and Smolniki was detached from Wiżajny and incorporated into the Rutka-Tartak commune. Wiżajny shares borders with Lithuania, making it an important border point, as well as with Russia and the Warmian-Masurian Voivodeship. The commune combines natural, cultural, and historical attractions, drawing the interest of both local residents and tourists.