Zabłudów

Zabłudów is an urban-rural municipality located in the Podlaskie Voivodeship, within the Białystok County, with its administrative seat in the town of the same name. The history of the municipality dates back to 1921, when it was inhabited by 8,176 people. By 2012, the population had increased to 9,108, and according to data from 2019, it reached 9,331. The municipality features a diverse land structure, with 62% of its area dedicated to agricultural use and 31% covered by forests, accounting for 11.66% of the total area of Białystok County. One of Zabłudów's main assets is its historical monuments, including the Church of Saints Peter and Paul and several Orthodox churches, such as the Dormition of the Mother of God Church and the churches in Ryboły. These architectural landmarks reflect the cultural diversity of the region, where Roman Catholic and Orthodox influences intertwine. In 1921, the community was religiously diverse—5,400 people declared Roman Catholicism, while 2,704 identified as Orthodox, illustrating the cultural richness of the municipality. To this day, many localities within the municipality have preserved their local traditions and identity. The municipality consists of numerous village districts, such as Aleksicze, Ryboły, and Pawły, as well as smaller settlements like Zabłudów-Kolonia. Neighboring municipalities, such as Białystok, Gródek, and Supraśl, contribute to cultural exchange and cooperation. An important aspect of local life are the traditions and customs that attract both tourists and residents, helping to preserve local heritage. Interestingly, the municipality was historically home to various nationalities, which left a lasting mark on its architecture, rituals, and social relations. Combining history with modernity, the Zabłudów municipality continues to develop its potential while preserving its unique cultural heritage.