 According to a romantic legend, Cieszyn was founded in 810 AD by three sons of Polish king Leszek III. Actually, it was established in 10th century, as a border-line settlement of the Polanie tribe, which was later developed into a town. In 1374, a town charter was given to Cieszyn. Up until the end of 13th century. it was a seat of the Cieszyn duchy. Several times, it was troubled by fires (most damaging in 1552, 1720 and 1789). The citizens were mainly merchants and craftsmen. After the war the town was divided into Polish and Czech Cieszyn, on the bank of river. The Market Square, the baroque town-hall, Three Brothers Well, many monumental churches, towers and castles are the town's tourist attractions. Three nature reserves are within  the boundary of the town: "Lasek Miejski nad Puńcówką", "Lasek Miejski nad Olzą", and "Kopce". Cieszyn's Śląskie (Silesian) Museum can boast many unique exhibits. |
