Zręcin

Zręcin, a village in the Podkarpackie Voivodeship, known until the beginning of the 20th century as "Little Venice," is situated in the valley of the Jasiołka River. The village is the seat of the Roman Catholic parish of St. Stanislaus the Bishop and boasts a rich history dating back to 1227, when it was under the patronage of the Cistercian Abbey in Koprzywnica. In the 13th century, the first churches were built in Zręcin, and the village became a significant center. Over the centuries, it witnessed numerous historical events, including Tatar invasions, and developed into a renowned cultural and religious hub. In the 16th century, a parish school operated in Zręcin, and in the 18th century, it served as a base for the Bar Confederates. In the 19th century, the village gained prominence thanks to the Klobassa-Zrencki family, who invested in infrastructure, including the construction of a new church and the development of a park and water complex. Before World War I, Zręcin was one of the wealthiest places in Galicia, famous for its numerous ponds and extensive water network. After World War II, the village lost much of its splendor, and after 1989, local attractions such as the cinema disappeared. Zręcin was home to a theater, hosted dances and festivities, and its cider factory became popular in the region. Notable heritage sites include the parish church, family chapels, and various manor houses, though many structures from its heyday have been destroyed. Currently, there are plans to rebuild some of these monuments, as well as discussions about establishing a new municipality that would include Zręcin and neighboring villages. The village remains closely tied to the history of a Jewish camp during the occupation, as the Czajkowski family hid nine people here. Public transportation is available in Zręcin, and the village serves as an important tourist point in the region.