Kalisch

Kalisch (Polish: Kalisz [ˈkaliʂ] (listen)) is a city in east-central Poland, located on the Prosna River. It is the second-largest city in the Greater Poland Voivodeship (after Poznań), and the capital of Kalisz County.

History:

Kalisz is considered one of the oldest cities in Poland, with evidence of settlement dating back to the Paleolithic era. Ptolemy's Geography (2nd century AD) mentions Calisia, often identified with modern-day Kalisz, although this identification is debated among historians.

In the Middle Ages, Kalisz was an important center of trade and craftsmanship. It served as a key settlement along trade routes connecting Eastern and Western Europe. It became the seat of a castellany in the 12th century and was granted city rights in 1257 by Duke Bolesław the Pious.

During the period of fragmentation of Poland, Kalisz was the capital of the Duchy of Greater Poland. The Statute of Kalisz, issued in 1264 by Duke Bolesław the Pious, granted privileges and protections to the Jewish population.

Throughout its history, Kalisz has experienced periods of prosperity and destruction. It was significantly damaged during the Deluge (Swedish invasion) in the 17th century and again in 1914, during World War I, when the city was largely destroyed by the German army.

Following World War I, Kalisz became part of the Second Polish Republic. During World War II, it was occupied by Nazi Germany and its Jewish population was murdered in the Holocaust.

After World War II, Kalisz was rebuilt and developed as an industrial and cultural center.

Economy:

Kalisz is an important economic hub in the Greater Poland region. Key industries include food processing, machinery manufacturing, and textiles. The city also boasts a growing service sector.

Culture:

Kalisz has a rich cultural heritage and is home to several museums, theaters, and art galleries. Notable cultural institutions include the Kalisz Philharmonic, the Kalisz Theatre, and the Museum of the Kalisz Region. The city hosts various festivals and cultural events throughout the year.

Education:

Kalisz is a significant educational center, hosting several universities and colleges, including the Akademia Kaliska im. Prezydenta Stanisława Wojciechowskiego (The Kalisz Academy of President Stanisław Wojciechowski).

Notable People:

• Adam Asnyk (poet and dramatist)
• Wojciech Fibak (tennis player)
• Mela Koteluk (singer and songwriter)

Twin Towns – Sister Cities:

Kalisz is twinned with:

• Hamm, Germany
• Hautmont, France
• La Louvière, Belgium
• Preston, United Kingdom
• Sittard-Geleen, Netherlands
• Kamianets-Podilskyi, Ukraine
• Erfurt, Germany
• Adria, Italy