PLOCK

city, capital of Plock wojewdztwo (province), central Poland, on the Vistula River. First chronicled in the 10th century, Plock is the oldest community in Mazowsze (Mazovia), having served as the seat of Polish rulers from 1079 to 1138. It received town privileges in 1237 and prospered as a trading centre through the 17th century. In 1793 Plock passed to Prussia; it was returned to Poland in 1918. The town was badly damaged during World War II, at which time it was known as Schrttersburg. The economy is based on oil refining and modern petrochemical and plastics works. There is also production of agricultural machinery and foodstuffs. It is located on a rail line and has riverboat service and good road links with the rest of Poland. It contains the state and diocesan museums. Pop. (1990 est.) 122,000.