Bolesławiec’s celebrations commemorating the adoption of the 3 May Constitution brought together city residents, local government officials, delegations from workplaces, schools and other institutions. Scouts and the city brass band were also present. The ceremony was enhanced by the honor guard company of the 23rd Silesian Artillery Regiment in Bolesławiec.
23rd Silesian Artillery Regiment:
The ceremonial assembly began with a report presented by the commander of the Bolesławiec Garrison, Col. Krzysztof Malankiewicz, which he received from the ceremony commander, Maj. Justyna Goguł. After the national flag was raised, Bolesławiec Mayor Piotr Roman delivered a commemorative address. The highlight of the ceremony was the reading of the roll call of remembrance and an honor volley fired by the honor guard company of the 23rd Silesian Artillery Regiment, after which participants laid bouquets of flowers at the Monument to the Centenary of Regaining Independence.
Following the commemorative speeches, flowers were laid in front of the Monument to the Centenary of Regaining Independence.
See the full program of the Bolesławiec celebrations marking the 233rd anniversary of the adoption of the 3 May Constitution.
The 3 May Constitution, adopted in 1791, was the first constitution in Europe and the second in the world, representing a milestone in the history of Polish law and democracy. This year marks the 233rd anniversary of this historic event, which is a national holiday in Poland commemorating the pursuit of reform and modernization of the state. Anniversary celebrations often include religious services, military parades, patriotic concerts and other cultural events reflecting the country’s rich history and national heritage.
The 3 May Constitution introduced significant reforms intended to strengthen central authority and limit noble anarchy. It established a constitutional monarchy with a stronger role for the king and government, and introduced the separation of powers into legislative, executive and judicial branches. The liberum veto was abolished to prevent the paralysis of the Sejm, and a majority-vote principle was introduced for decision-making. The Constitution also represented a step toward abolishing free election and limiting the rights of the nobility, which was intended to contribute to the stabilization and modernization of the state.