Happy TravellerWelcome to Nowa Sól, a charming city located on the banks of the Oder River in Lubusz Voivodeship, western Poland. With a population of 38,763 (2019), Nowa Sól is the capital of Nowa Sól County and a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by travelers. Let’s take a journey through the history, culture, and attractions of this fascinating city.
== History ==
The first settlement in the region of modern Nowa Sól dates back to the 14th century, when the territory was under Bohemian sovereignty as part of the Holy Roman Empire. Emperor Ferdinand I founded the demesne land Zum Neuen Saltze in 1563 to break Silesia’s dependency on salt from Poland. The sea salt, originally from La Rochelle and the Iberian coast, was transported from Hamburg and Stettin (Szczecin) along the navigable Oder. A flood in 1573 led to the relocation of the salt refinery to the nearby village of Modritz (Modrzyca); the office of the administrator is now the town hall. The settlement was documented as Neusalzburg (New Salzburg) in 1585 and later as Neusalz (New Salt). A trading harbor was built on the Oder in 1592. The Protestant Church of St. Michael, built from 1591 to 1597, was converted to Roman Catholicism in 1654.
During World War II, Nowa Sól was the site of a labor camp belonging to the Gross-Rosen concentration camp. German troops destroyed the concrete bridge on 9 February 1945, but the Soviet Red Army entered Nowa Sól on 13/14 February 1945. A number of buildings burnt down, including the Catholic Church. Nowa Sól was rebuilt as an industrial and administrative center, superseding nearby Kożuchów. From 1975 to 1998 it was in the Zielona Gora Voivodeship, after which it became part of the Lubusz Voivodeship.
== Culture ==
Nowa Sól has a rich cultural heritage, with many museums and galleries showcasing the city’s history and art. The Museum of Nowa Sól is a must-visit for anyone interested in the city’s past, with exhibits on the history of salt production, the local linen industry, and the labor camp during World War II. The Museum of Contemporary Art is another highlight, featuring works by Polish and international artists.
The city also hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Nowa Sól Days in June, which celebrates the city’s history and culture with concerts, parades, and traditional food and drink. The International Festival of Street Theatres is another popular event, with performers from all over the world entertaining crowds with their acrobatics, music, and comedy.
== Attractions ==
Nowa Sól has plenty of attractions to keep visitors entertained. The Oder River is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and kayaking, with several companies offering guided tours. The city’s parks and green spaces are also worth exploring, with the Park Miejski and Park Nadodrzański offering beautiful views of the river and the surrounding countryside.
For history buffs, the Church of St. Michael is a must-see, with its impressive Baroque architecture and stunning interior. The Old Town Square is another highlight, with its colorful buildings and charming cafes and restaurants. The nearby town of Kożuchów is also worth a visit, with its medieval castle and picturesque streets.
== Conclusion ==
Nowa Sól may not be as well-known as some of Poland’s other cities, but it has plenty to offer visitors. From its rich history and culture to its beautiful natural scenery and attractions, Nowa Sól is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. So why not add it to your travel itinerary and experience the charm and beauty of this fascinating city for yourself?
