Originally established as a medieval walled market town, Swiebodzin is now an important transportation hub in western Poland. It’s home to beautifully preserved churches, a 16th-century town hall and the world’s largest statue of Jesus Christ, which has resulted in some Poles referring to the town as “Rio de Swiebodzineiro”.
Things to do in Świebodzin
In the heart of Swiebodzin is Parc Chopina, which features a children’s playground, a palm house and plenty of benches for watching the world go by. On the western outskirts of town is the Rodzinne Ogrody Działkowe, a picturesque community garden where a variety of fresh produce is grown. In the summer months, you can swim from the beach on the shores of Lake Wilkowskie or jump into the water from its wooden pier.
For a dose of local history, pay a visit to the Muzeum Regionalne, which occupies several rooms of the historic Town Hall. Designed in a combination of Renaissance and Neo-Gothic styles, the building was originally established in the 15th century and rebuilt after a destructive fire in 1541. In addition to regional paintings, vintage postcards and Polish coins, the museum’s exhibits include local archaeological findings.
Rising atop a hill on the outskirts of town is the giant statue, “Christ the King”, which was completed in 2010 as a pilgrimage site. Based on a design by Mirosław Kazimierz Patecki and topped by a gilded crown, it was built to a height of 33 metres, symbolising the belief that Jesus was 33 at the time of his death.
Getting around Świebodzin
Swiebodzin is just over an hour’s drive from Poznan and Poznan–Ławica Airport, which has flights to destinations across Europe. Regular trains connect to the Swiebodzin railway station and the town centre is compact enough to explore on foot.