Choszczno
Choszczno [ˈxɔʂt͡ʂnɔ] ⓘ (German: Arnswalde) is a town in West Pomeranian Voivodeship, Poland. As of December 2021, the town has a population of 14,831. The town is in a marshy district between the river Stobnica and Klukom lake, 32 kilometres (20 mi) southeast of Stargard and on the main railway line between Szczecin and Poznań. Besides the Gothic church, there are a number of historical buildings from the 19th century industrial period namely, a gasification plant and a water pressure tower which dominates the town's skyline.
Choszczno | |
|---|---|
Lake Kluki and the St. Mary's church in the background | |
|
Flag Coat of arms | |
Choszczno | |
| Coordinates: 53°10′N 15°24′E | |
| Country | Poland |
| Voivodeship | West Pomeranian |
| County | Choszczno |
| Gmina | Choszczno |
| Town rights | 1284 |
| Government | |
| • Mayor | Robert Adamczyk |
| Area | |
| • Total | 9.58 km2 (3.70 sq mi) |
| Population (31 December 2021) | |
| • Total | 14,831 |
| • Density | 1,500/km2 (4,000/sq mi) |
| Time zone | UTC+1 (CET) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC+2 (CEST) |
| Postal code | 73-200, 73-201 |
| Area code | +48 95 |
| Vehicle registration | ZCH |
| Voivodeship roads | |
| Website | http://www.choszczno.pl/ |
Choszczno is the administrative centre of Choszczno County.
The town was badly affected by the Second World War: 80% of its buildings were damaged or destroyed. The town was rebuilt and is now a center for local government of the Choszczno commune (Polish: gmina). Due to its microclimate the town has become a rehabilitation center for convalescing patients. The close proximity of the lakes has made it a tourist destination for water sports. It has also become a popular destination for golf, as it is home to Modry Las, a top ranked European golf course. Other tourist attractions are 'Wodny Raj' aqua park and Drawieński National Park, located 20 km (12 mi) to the east near the town of Drawno.
Choszczno has a strong military tradition and is the home base for the 2nd Artillery Regiment, which is part of the 12th Mechanised Division headquartered in Szczecin.
The town's industries include: machinery, and the manufacture of clothing, animal feeds and starch.