Today’s jigsaw puzzle is of the city of Reszel, often called “A Medieval Jewel of Warmia.” This writeup is a tad bit long, but hang in there.
Nestled in the heart of the Warmian-Masurian Voivodeship, Reszel is a picturesque town that feels like a living museum of Polish history. Founded in the 13th century, it was originally a Prussian stronghold before being conquered by the Teutonic Knights in 1241. For centuries, the town flourished as a key administrative and defensive center under the rule of the Bishops of Warmia.
The centerpiece of the town is the Reszel Castle, a red-brick Gothic giant built between 1350 and 1401. Originally designed as a fortress for the bishops, it transitioned over time from a military bastion to a luxurious hunting residence. Today, the castle has been meticulously restored and serves as a boutique hotel and art gallery, allowing visitors to walk the same halls once frequented by Nicolaus Copernicus, who served as the bishop’s physician and secretary.
Reszel holds a somber distinction in European history as the site of the continent’s last execution of an alleged witch. In 1811, Barbara Zdunk was burned at the stake on a hill outside the town walls. Though officially charged with arson following devastating fires in 1806 and 1807, public superstition labeled her a witch. Today, the castle’s dungeons and torture museum serve as a chilling reminder of this dark period.
Despite its turbulent past—including fires, sieges by the Teutonic Knights, and the shifts of World War II—Reszel has preserved its medieval layout with remarkable integrity. Its narrow cobblestone streets, Gothic bridges over the Sajna River, and the towering St. Peter and Paul’s Church offer a serene escape.
This commitment to heritage led Reszel to join Cittaslow, an international movement dedicated to the “slow life,” prioritizing local traditions, culture, and high quality of life over the frantic pace of modern cities. For history enthusiasts and travelers alike, Reszel remains a rare, well-preserved window into the medieval soul of Poland.
OK, now on to the jigsaw puzzles! Enjoy!

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