Zielona Góra

Zielona Góra, the largest city in the Lubusz Voivodeship, is located in western Poland on the slopes of the Oder River valley. With a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages, the city was founded in 1222. Situated on the Zielona Góra Ridge, it is renowned for its wine production, a tradition that began in the 12th century when settlers from Franconia arrived. The city center retains pre-war architecture, including the historic Old Town adorned with 19th and 20th-century tenement houses and villas, as well as significant architectural monuments such as the Co-Cathedral of St. Hedwig of Silesia, the 15th-century town hall, and the Łaziebna Tower. Urban public spaces are enriched with green areas: parks, gardens, and vineyards, as well as the Wine House and the Palm House. Zielona Góra is a city of culture, hosting numerous festivals and events, including the annual Winobranie, which celebrates local winemaking traditions. The city boasts diverse cultural institutions, such as a theater, a philharmonic, and museums, including the Museum of Wine. A notable curiosity is the numerous statues of bachusiki—figurines depicting the Roman god of wine—which have become a symbol of the city. Zielona Góra is also home to the University of Zielona Góra, contributing to a vibrant student life. The city has a well-developed transport infrastructure, including public transport, as well as rail and road connections. Known for its abundance of green spaces, Zielona Góra is one of the cleanest cities in Poland. Since 2015, after merging with the Zielona Góra municipality, the city has expanded significantly, now covering an area of 278.32 km². In 2022, Zielona Góra celebrated its 800th anniversary, highlighting its long and rich history as well as its dynamic development.