Barracks building of the 12th infantry regiment in Wadowice
Barracks building of the 12th infantry regiment in Wadowice
Before the war, there was also an excellent orchestra of the 12th infantry regiment here, of which the younger generation certainly does not know. But we, the older, do: the Regiment in Wadowice.
John Paul II
Wadowice, 7 June 1979
The barracks were built in 1827 for the needs of the 56th infantry regiment k.u.k. which was deployed in Wadowice. The building was built on a square plane with an internal courtyard surrounded by arcade corridors. Opposite, the stables for 120 horses were built. After World War II, the barracks were a seat for several establishments. Currently, it is the only Polish monument of military architecture of this type in Poland.
In 1918, after regaining independence by Poland, the regiment was renamed the 12th infantry regiment in Wadowice. The soldiers of the regiment became famous in the Polish-Soviet war in 1919-1921 by taking part in numerous battles. In 1939, the troops of the 12th infantry regiment actively participated in the defensive war. From 1 to 3 September, the fortress company of the 12th infantry regiment, under the command of Cpt. Semik defended the passage through Węgierska Górka against the German army which was several ten times more numerous and better armed. This place was called “Westerplatte of the South”.
In the years 1900-1928, father of the Pope, Karol Wojtyła Sr, served in the regiment. Along with the regiment, he covered the trail of battles during World War I. Many times, young Karol took part in the patriotic ceremonies, at which the excellent orchestra of the 12th infantry regiment used to play.
Date of introduction: March 22, 2016