Szczecin

Kamień kaszubski z gryfem przy katedrze w Szczecinie

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Szczecin katedra sw Jakuba (2)

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Szczecin Zamek Ksiazat Pomorskich (od pln-wsch)

Alten Stettin Hogenberg

Stettin merian

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Stettin Lange Brucke (1890-1900)

Szczecin (Polish pronunciation: [ˈʂt͡ʂɛt͡ɕin] (listen); German: Stettin [ʃtɛˈtiːn]), is a city situated on the Oder River in northwest Poland. It is the capital of the West Pomeranian Voivodeship and the seventh-largest city in Poland. As of the latest data, Szczecin has a population of over 400,000, making it a major seaport and Poland's largest coastal city.

History

Szczecin's history dates back to the 8th century when it was a Slavic Pomeranian stronghold. The city came under Pomeranian dukes in the 12th century and later, in the 17th century, became part of the Kingdom of Prussia. Following World War II, the city was transferred to Poland as part of the Potsdam Agreement. Szczecin's complex history is reflected in its architecture, ranging from medieval castles to modernist buildings.

Geography

Szczecin is located in the far northwest of Poland, near the border with Germany. It lies along the banks of the Oder River, which empties into the Szczecin Lagoon, and then into the Baltic Sea. The city's unique location makes it an important maritime gateway for Poland, connecting it with the Baltic ports.

Economy

The economy of Szczecin is largely based on maritime industries, including shipbuilding, maritime logistics, and fishing. Additionally, the city has a growing service sector, with numerous IT companies establishing their presence in recent years. Szczecin's strategic location, combined with its large port and developed infrastructure, makes it a significant economic hub in the region.

Culture

Szczecin is home to several cultural institutions, including the Szczecin Philharmonic, the Pomeranian Dukes' Castle, and the National Museum in Szczecin. The city hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Szczecin Jazz Festival and the Days of the Sea. Its vibrant cultural scene is complemented by numerous parks and green spaces, making Szczecin known as one of the greenest cities in Poland.

Education

The city is an important educational center in the region, hosting the University of Szczecin, the West Pomeranian University of Technology, and several other higher education institutions. These universities offer a wide range of programs in various fields, contributing to the city's dynamic and educated workforce.

Transport

Szczecin is well-connected by various modes of transport. The Szczecin Goleniów Airport serves both domestic and international flights. The city's extensive public transportation system includes trams, buses, and a fast urban rail service. Szczecin's location also makes it a crucial link in the Baltic Sea maritime routes, with its port being one of the busiest in Poland.

See also

• West Pomeranian Voivodeship
• Oder River
• Baltic Sea