Comprehensive information and links about Poland Bochnia

Bochnia is a town in south-eastern Poland with 30,000 inhabitants (2001), situated in the Lesser Poland Voivodship but previously in the Tarnow Voivodship (1975-1998).

Originally founded in 1253, the town is well known for being home to the oldest still existing salt mine in Europe, which was built circa 1248.

table . The salt mine is one of the oldest salt mines in the world and the oldest one in Poland and Europe. The mine was established between the 12th and 13th centuries after salt was discovered in Bochnia. The mines measure 4,5 kilometres in length and 468 metres in depth at 16 different levels. Deserted chambers, shafts and passages form a so called b which is now open to sightseers. The largest of the preserved chambers has been converted into a sanatorium.

Ralph Modjeski (Rudolf Modrzejewski), notable engineer in the United States, born 1861 to actress Helena Modjeska.