Fraustadt

Fraustadt is the historical German name for the town today known as Wschowa, located in western Poland. It is part of Lubusz Voivodeship, Wschowa County, and serves as the seat of Gmina Wschowa. The town lies in the historical region of Greater Poland and has long acted as a regional market and administrative center.

The settlement dates to the Middle Ages, and it received municipal rights during the medieval period. Over the centuries it was ruled by various states, reflecting the shifting borders of the region. In the 18th century, Fraustadt became part of Prussia and later the German Empire, remaining under German governance until the end of World War II. Following the war, Polish administration was restored to the area, the German population was expelled, and the town was repopulated by Poles. The Polish name Wschowa was restored, and the town became part of Poland's Lubusz Voivodeship.

Fraustadt is notably associated with the Battle of Fraustadt in 1706, a major engagement of the Great Northern War, which occurred nearby and influenced military campaigns in the region.

In the contemporary period, Wschowa is a small town with a historic center that reflects its medieval and early modern past. The local economy centers on administration, services, and regional trade, with agriculture in surrounding areas. The town preserves architectural landmarks and cultural heritage linked to its long, multi-ethnic history, attracting visitors interested in regional history and Polish–German historical ties.