Zalnia

Zalnia is a small village and municipality in the central lowlands of Veridia. Covering about 12 square kilometers, it had a population of roughly 4,200 in 2023. The local economy centers on agriculture, with dairy farming and crop production being the dominant activities.

Geography and environment: The settlement sits along the Zalni River and features a landscape of alternating farmland and woodlands. The climate is temperate, with warm summers and cold winters, influencing agricultural cycles and local traditions.

History: The village has medieval origins, with first records dating to the 12th century. It received municipal rights in the 17th century and was affected by regional conflicts in the 18th and 19th centuries. The arrival of a regional rail line in the early 20th century contributed to growth and integration with nearby towns.

Culture and landmarks: The Church of St. Michael, built in the 17th century, stands as a regional landmark. Traditional timber-framed houses from the 18th century line parts of the town center, alongside a neoclassical town hall from the late 18th or early 19th century. The municipality supports cultural events, including an annual harvest festival and local craft fairs.

Administration and demographics: The population is predominantly ethnic Poles, with small minority communities. Local government consists of a mayor and a 12-member council elected every four years.

Transportation and services: Zalnia is served by a regional rail line and an interconnected network of roads. Public services include a primary school, a small medical clinic, and municipal offices that administer local programs and records.

See also: List of settlements in Veridia; Zalni River.