Gizycko, Poland Review

Gizycko, established in 1335 in northeastern Poland, is situated in the Warmian-Masurian Voivodeship, the land of a 1000 lakes, has about 30,000 people.

 There are several "sites" within walking distance. A castle built by Teutonic Knights in 1340 stands next to a hand turned revolving bridge on the Luczany Canal where tourist gather to watch the boats pass by and feed the birds. A water tower turned museum hosts a lunch room at the top. A still active 19th century Lutheran church stands in the middle of town. There are some beautiful Greek Orthodox and Roman Catholic churches as well.  "Feste Boyen", one of the largest and best conditioned fortresses of the 19th century; and a park with the stations of the cross marked by large inscribed stones take you to a memorial cross for Holy Bruno of Querfurt who was martyred in 1008.

The summers are warm and inviting and they have a grate carnival near the port where sailboats, fishing-boats, and ferries take folks across the waters shared with swans and ducks.

The winters bring snow and quiet. Many of the lakes freeze over and you will see iceboats sailing across the lakes, ice-skaters circling, and anglers gathering around holes in the ice. Cross-country skiers can be found on park trails.

Folks are friendly and the US dollar is strong. There is a grate open market all year long where you can find good deals and fresh produce. The food is wonderful and there are several good restaurants. My favorite is a potato dumpling filled with meat; the pirogues are unchallenged, and you can find Pizza made with Colby cheese. Too yummy. However, do not look for a good cup of coffee. Tea, beer and vodka are the beverages of choice.