Wizna

Wizna is a picturesque village in Poland, located in the Podlaskie Voivodeship on the Narew River, known for its rich history dating back to the 11th century, when it was a stronghold guarding the eastern borders of Masovia. After being granted town rights in 1400, the settlement developed as the seat of local assemblies until the 18th century. Wizna was the site of numerous conflicts, including invasions by the Yotvingians, and in 1294 it was destroyed by the Teutonic Knights. Many important historical events took place here, including the defense of Wizna during World War II, known as the "Polish Thermopylae," where 720 Poles resisted a German armored corps. Wizna captivates not only with its history but also with its architecture. The most significant architectural achievement is the late Gothic Church of St. John the Baptist from 1525, founded by Duchess Anna of Masovia, which was blown up by the Germans in 1944 and rebuilt in the 1950s. Other interesting sites include a Baroque bell tower from around 1650 and the remains of ancient strongholds. Wizna was also home to the Skra Wizna Sports Club, established in 1955, which focused on football and achieved promotion to the Podlasie IV League in 2008. Despite its small size, Wizna holds immense cultural and historical significance. It is a place steeped in history, remembering not only times of glory but also dramatic moments from the past.