The town received its charter from Kazimierz Wielki in the year 1348.

From the end of the 19th century it was known as a health resort. Here you can be treated for problems of the respiratory system and the digestive system. The resort complex is opposite the town centre, on the right side of the river. The beautiful mountains are excellent for walks and excursions, and there are many bubbling mineral water springs flowing out into the local valleys. You can sample the delicious water flowing straight from the ground – just pop along to nearby Łomnica or Wierchomla.