Until recently, Katowice has been known as the mine industrial center in southern Poland. You can still see mine shafts and so-called “familoks” (workers’ houses), yet the city’s atmosphere has been changing. Today, it’s the capital of culture, good food, and modern architecture.
For years Silesia and Katowice have been identified with mine industry. Lately, the city attracts tourists not only with fantastic and world-renowned architectural projects and successful revitalization of post-industrial buildings, but also with cultural events, museums of the region’s history, and delicious local cuisine.
Everywhere in Katowice, you can see that the city undergoes a deliberate transformation. Just go to the futuristic arena complex called “Spodek” or, situated next to it, Culture Zone with black as coal International Congress Center, monumental NOSPR (Polish National Radio Symphony Orchestra) building, and the Silesian Museum built in the former mine area. Take your time in the last spot, as it has one of the best European interactive exhibitions, where you surely won’t get bored.
If you’re looking for historic buildings, go to a modernistic part of the city located near railway tracks. There, following the Route of Modernism, you’ll have a chance to admire the buildings of Silesian Parliament and Silesian Voievodship Office, as well as the tenements and villas typical for the 1930s. Don’t forget about visiting Nikiszowiec, atmospheric and trendy city district. It’s a former workers’ quarters with clinker brick buildings with many excellent restaurants, coffeehouses, and art galleries. Outdoor events attracting crowds also take place there – check out “Fair at Grandma Anna’s” in summer, “Art Market” being a part of the naïve art festival, and “Christmas market” in winter.
If you like fun, you just can’t miss Mariacka Street, close to the city center near the main train station. This is where best clubs, pubs, and restaurants serving the world cuisine are located. See yourself and feel the atmosphere of a never-ending party!
