Once a bustling town smelling of goose meat, full of the good atmosphere of cultures coexisting side by side. Today, Chmielnik is frequented by enthusiasts of Jewish history who, attracted by the tranquillity of Chmielnik, venture outside the town and discover the peculiarities of the entire community... especially at the charming fishponds.
Chmielnik was first mentioned as early as 1241, when a battle was fought here between Tatar and Malopolska armies. Unfortunately, the outcome of the battle was unfavourable for the Polish forces.
However, this fact did not have a negative impact on the development of the town, which in the following years developed quite intensively and became the property of Jan Oleśnicki, gained town rights and became a centre of Calvinism. With the growth of the town, more and more Jews arrived in the area in the 17th century. In 1630, Krzysztof Goluchowski, the heir of Chmielnik, issued a privilege allowing Jews to reside, build a synagogue, school and trade.
This contributed to further rapid economic development of the town. In 1638, a synagogue was built, the walls of which have survived to this day, and their size testifies to the number of Jewish inhabitants and their importance in the town's community.
History written in the shtetl
Today Chmielnik is visited by Poles and foreigners who want to learn more about the Jewish population in small Polish towns and see a unique tangible relic of the past - a synagogue with the world's only glass bimah. The Świętokrzyski Shtetl in the former synagogue in Chmielnik will introduce you to the atmosphere of the old shtetl. Come to Chmielnik in June for the Days of Cultures.
This event attracts larger and larger crowds every year and is organised with increasing flair. It's an opportunity to dance, sing and sample local delicacies in a klezmer atmosphere
When visiting Chmielnik, outside the walls of the old Synagogue, have a look also at:
- the parish church of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary dating from the 18th century
- the late Baroque Holy Trinity Church from the early 16th century
- architectural layout of the old town square dating from the 19th century.
Sanctuary in Piotrkowice
A late Renaissance gem in the small town of Piotrkowice is a shrine visited by pilgrims in large numbers. The facility is overseen by the Discalced Carmelites. Among the Baroque splendour in the interior of the church, look out for the Loretto chapel with a Loretto cottage containing a statue of the Virgin Mary from around 1400.
Water amusements - Andrzejówka
Andrzejówka guarded reservoir in Śladków is an excellent place for relaxation and year-round recreation. Around the reservoir there are paths for walkers and cyclists. The surrounding area is extremely valuable in terms of nature, and boards inform about the plant and bird species found here.
Land of fish ponds
Peace and quiet, forests and... farm ponds at farms, which you can use freely even without a fishing card. The ponds are mainly inhabited by carp, but there are also amurs, silver carp, pike, catfish and others. In the municipality of Chmielnik, and especially in the village of Śladków, the farms are famous for fish breeding.
