Chodzież is a town in west-central Poland, situated in the Greater Poland Voivodeship. It serves as the administrative seat of Chodzież County and the rural Gmina Chodzież, although it constitutes a separate urban gmina.
Geography The town is located within the Chodzież Lake District (Pojezierze Chodzieskie), a region characterized by post-glacial landscapes. Chodzież is positioned between three lakes: Lake Miejskie, Lake Karczewnik, and Lake Strzeleckie. The surrounding area features moraine hills, which provide a varied topography uncommon for much of the Great Poland lowland.
History The earliest historical mentions of the settlement date back to the 15th century. Chodzież was granted town rights in 1434 under Magdeburg law. Throughout its history, it was a private town owned by various Polish noble families, including the Potulicki and Grudziński families.
Following the First Partition of Poland in 1772, the town was annexed by the Kingdom of Prussia. During the period of German administration, it was renamed Kolmar in Posen. After the end of World War I and the success of the Greater Poland Uprising (1918–1919), the town was restored to the sovereign Polish state. During World War II, Chodzież was occupied by Nazi Germany and incorporated into the Reichsgau Wartheland.
Economy and Industry Chodzież is internationally recognized for its long-standing tradition in the ceramics industry. The production of porcelain and faience began in the mid-19th century. The "Chodzież" porcelain brand remains one of the oldest and most prominent ceramic producers in Poland, known for both utility ware and decorative pieces. While the industry has undergone structural changes in the post-communist era, the town retains its identity as a center for ceramic craftsmanship.
Demographics and Culture As of recent statistical data, the town has a population of approximately 18,000 residents. Chodzież is a local cultural hub, hosting events such as the "Cho-Jazz" workshops (International Jazz Workshops), which have been held annually since the 1970s and attract musicians from across Europe. The town's location near lakes and forests also makes it a center for local tourism and water sports.
