Travel Guide Bochnia

The oldest town in the Małopolska region, Bochnia, lies between Kraków and Tarnów on the Raba River. Its salt mine, built in the middle of the 13th century, is the oldest in Europe and is still functioning. Thanks to its mine and good location, Bochnia became one of the main economic cities of Małopolska in the 14th century. King Kazimierz Wielki had a favorable influence towards the town and fortified it, created its town hall, a hospital and even accommodations for its miners, including the first in Poland. The Basilica of St. Nicholas was also built at that time. In 1561, Bochnia suffered a fire and the salt deposits were exhausted, so the town lost its importance. In the 17th century, the town was ravaged by new fires, epidemics and wars, especially during the Great Northern War. Bochnia was part of the Austrian Empire and the Galicia region until 1918, when it was destroyed and then rebuilt. During the Second Republic, it became part of the Krakow Voivodeship. It continued its troubled history by becoming the site of one of the first mass executions in Poland during World War II. The Jewish ghetto of Bochnia was exterminated at that time. In 1944, the 12th Infantry Regiment was established here, giving the city military importance. It should also be noted that the anti-communist resistance was very strong here.The Chapel of St. Kinga is one of the five underground churches in the world. The Wazyn chamber, in the heart of the Bochnia mine, is home to this unusual holy place founded in 1747 with a pulpit, statues and altar entirely carved from salt. On Christmas Eve and Saint King's Day, vibrant masses are held here.