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Useful information for tourists about Katowice in Poland - geographical location, tourist infrastructure, map, architectural features and attractions.
Katowice is a Polish Upper Silesian city founded in the 19th century overflowing with violent cataclysms, in which it was honored to be called the capital of the Silesian Voivodeship. Moreover, Katowice was awarded the city status only in 1865! Perhaps this dynamism is imparted to the settlement by the specifics of Polish history: local settlements are much older than their official age.
In particular, a settlement on the site of modern Katowice has existed since the 14th century, and in the 18th century the foundation of a coal mine was recorded here - heralds of the future center of the coal industry in Poland. The creation of a fuel base almost never takes place in isolation, and therefore Katowice was quickly enriched with mechanical engineering, porcelain, food, and printing industries. Ferrous and non-ferrous metallurgy developed here.
The industrial city, of course, demanded injections of personnel, to which the authorities reacted by creating a university. The rise in the cultural level of the city encouraged the establishment of theater groups in Katowice. And the development of tourism has stimulated the construction of a local airport that receives Polish and foreign flights.
The bus transfer not only comfortably delivers newly arrived air passengers to the city center every half hour. Bus routes intertwine the surrounding towns with Katowice, providing mobility for travelers. The railway connection between Katowice and the surrounding towns has been no less rationalized.
It is difficult to blame the city for the excess of hotels, but the annoying crowding is really to be faced mainly in the high season. Katowice has no shortage of places where tourists can be enchanted with masterpieces of national cuisine. Decorated in a traditional rural style, Marysin Dwór and the equally demonstrative provincial Karcma pod Strzechom are always popular.
The winds of internationalization have not spared Katowice either. In local catering, this was reflected in the emergence of the Chinese Restauracja a Dong, which captivated lovers of exoticism. And local fans of Italian cuisine will recommend the La Grotta trattoria to tourists.
Katowice is famous for its abundance of museums. Even a short list of these establishments commands respect. Historical, archaeological museums, a museum of antique interiors and a modern observatory and planetarium offer a retrospective look into the past. For adherents of the faith, magnificent examples of temple architecture of past centuries are attractive, which are the wooden church in honor of the holy Archangel Michael and the baroque style of the Cathedral of Christ the Savior.
Katowice is the capital of the Silesian Voivodeship, which is located in the south of Poland. This is a fairly young town, founded in the nineteenth century, and it received the status of a city in 1865.
History of the city of Katowice
After Stalin died, in 1953 the city was renamed Stalinogrud, but three years later the city again proudly began to bear the name Katowice. In 1999, the city received the status of the capital of the Silesian Voivodeship. And from 1975 to 1998, Katowice was the capital of the Katowice Voivodeship. The city of Katowice is the center of the coal and metallurgical industry.
Attractions of the city of Katowice
This wooden church of St. Archangel is the oldest building in the city. It is located in the Kosciuszko Park. The church was built in 1510 and functioned as a parish church. The interior of the temple was decorated with a variety of antique elements, among them a wooden carving of a Mother with a baby in her arms from the sixteenth century, a pulpit made of seventeenth century wood, a sprinkler of the fifteenth century. The bell tower, which stands separately from 1679.
In this museum, visitors will have the opportunity to learn more about the development of the city, thanks to the expositions that are exhibited in it. The museum is housed in a magnificent Art Nouveau building, built in 1908. There you can see various historical documents, photographs, architectural drawings and valuable paintings, and there are also whole furnished rooms. There are kept household items, clothes, furniture and dishes, all these things tell about the life of the middle class and the wealthy bourgeoisie.
This museum contains interesting exhibitions dedicated to the culture and art of Upper Silesia. Here you can look at the various interiors of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, which were common in the Silesian huts, paintings by the famous Polish artist Ewald Hawlik. In this place, from time to time, seminars on any historical topic are held, and they also carry out practice in the preparation of traditional dishes of this region.
Silesian Museum
This museum was opened in 1929, the initiator of the opening was Tadeusz Dobrovolski, he was the director. The exposition of the museum was so extensive that in 1936 it was decided to build a new modern building. But, alas, it was not possible to open a new building, since the Germans, who at that time had already occupied the city, dismantled the buildings. This museum was revived in 1984, but restoration work lasted until 1992. There are more than a hundred thousand various archeological and ethnographic art objects, as well as paintings by famous Polish artists such as Jozef Helmonski, Tadeusz Makovsky, and Jan Matejko.
This building is one of the most beautiful buildings in the city. It was built in 1870 in a neo-Renaissance style. The initiators of the construction were the Goldstein brothers who owned several sawmills. It is a luxurious two-story building with stucco work and sculptures of three women. These sculptures represent industry, science and art. Inside, everything looks sophisticated enough, which speaks of the wealth of the former owners. Throughout the twentieth century, what was not in this palace. There was a Polish Friendship Society, a chamber of commerce, a theater, then a cinema and many other various institutions. Now the Goldstein Palace is the property of the Katowice administration.
In Katowice, on Market Square, there is the largest theater in the whole of Silesia. It was built in 1907 in the style - modern and neoclassicism. The facade of the building was decorated by the architect of this object, Karl Moritz, with chic bas-reliefs, and the main staircase that led to the entrance with amazingly beautiful lanterns. In the twentieth century, very famous Polish actors performed on the stage of this theater. The theater's repertoire mainly consists of works of world and Polish classics.
This monument is one of the main symbols of the city. This is a memorial dedicated to the three uprisings of the inhabitants of the voivodeship against the government of Germany. The monument was opened in 1967 in September. Wojciech Zablocki was the architect of the monument, and the sculptor was Gustav Zemla. Their steel structure is represented by three eagle wings, which are the symbol of the Silesian uprisings of 1919-1921.
This is another symbol of the city. Spoden is a large saucer-shaped sports and entertainment hall. This facility has been under construction for seven years, starting in 1964. Its total area is 339 thousand square meters. Due to the fact that the hall is very spacious, it can accommodate about twelve thousand people, major musical and, of course, sporting events are held there, which attracts a large number of people not only from all over Poland, but also from other countries. In Spodek, the most famous groups have performed and often perform.
The city of Katowice will leave pleasant memories for those who came here for new, vivid impressions.
Katowice is the largest historical region in Poland and also the center of heavy industry. The mountainous regions of Katowice are rich in coal deposits, the extraction of which brought the city to the international economic level. In addition to industrial plants, the city has a huge variety of historical and cultural monuments that attract the attention of tourists.
The most beautiful buildings are the Cathedral of Christ the Savior and the Catholic Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The design of religious shrines is thought out to the smallest detail, it is decorated with sculptures and frescoes, and the interior decoration is completely hand-made. Another magnificent architectural structure is the Silesian Theater, the construction of which took place in 1906-1907.
As for museums, you should start visiting the expositions from the Historical Museum, which displays a collection of artifacts telling about the history of the city, as well as a rich collection of paintings by the famous Polish artist S. Witkiewicz. The work of archaeologists will be shown to you by the Museum of Silesia, which also hosts seminars on ethnography and history. A wide variety of exhibits are kept in the Museum of Antique Interiors. There are collections of jewelry, tableware, numismatics, prints, furniture and sculptures. Copyright www.site
Lovers of classical music should visit the Silesian Concert Hall, where the most famous European artists perform. On Tuesdays, recitals are held here, and on Fridays you can attend a performance by the Philharmonic Orchestra. The International Book and Print Press Club has become a well-known cultural center, where a wide variety of events are held: musical performances, exhibitions and expositions. While walking in the main city park, you can also take an excursion to the Planetarium or Astronomical Observatory.
Among the outstanding architectural monuments of the city, it is worth noting the Church of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul. This spectacular building with a high gabled tower began to be built in 1898 and was completed four years later. Like many years ago, now the historical building is adorned with magnificent sculptures and skillful stained-glass windows, the interior decoration of the religious building has also been preserved almost unchanged.
A unique historical object can be seen on the territory of Kosciuszko Park, here is the Church of St. Michael the Archangel. It is the oldest building in the city; the church was moved to the park in 1938. It was built in 1510 and served as a parish church in the village of Syrynya for over 400 years. Now the old church is remarkable not only for its amazing appearance, but also for the preserved ancient elements of decoration. Visitors can admire the skillful wood carvings, as well as see the magnificent wooden pulpit, which was installed in the church in the 17th century.
Attractions Katowice
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Many Ukrainians come to Poland through Katowice. The explanation for this is simple - it is to the airport of this city that the low-cost Wizzair flies.
But most of our compatriots perceive Katowice only as a kind of staging post on the way to Krakow or other cities, so they do not stay there even for a couple of hours.
In our opinion, in vain. Katowice has a lot to do and see. We have selected 5 things you should definitely do during your visit to this city.
TOP 5 things to do in Katowice - see the unique church from 1510
One of the favorite places of local residents is Kościuszko Park, which is located 10-15 minutes from the city center. The park is spread over a large area (72 hectares), divided into several zones. All over the park there are beautifully decorated flower beds, various sculptures.
The park is very beautifully lit in the evening, however, this is not the safest time of the day.
The real pearl of the park is the unique wooden church of St. Michael the Archangel, built back in 1510. The attraction is a must-see.
TOP 5 things to do in Katowice - take a photo with the Pope
After the death of Pope John Paul II, members of the Katowice government decided to build a monument in honor of the Pope, who became an honorary citizen of the city. John Paul II visited Katowice in 1983. The monument cost PLN 190,000 and was erected in June 2006.
TOP 5 things to do in Katowice - go on an excursion to Auschwitz
From Katowice it is very convenient to go to the infamous Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp or, as it is popularly called, the "death camp". The attraction, although not the most positive, leaves an indelible impression. Even in spite of the fact that now Auschwitz has become a popular tourist destination with all the ensuing consequences.
You can get from Katowice to Auschwitz by bus. There are 2 bus stations, both close to the city's train station. Buses to Auschwitz leave from the PKS station, which is located on Petro Skargi Street. It is better to go in the morning, there are buses, for example, at 9:00 and 10:00. On the road - about an hour.
Admission to Auschwitz-Birkenau is free. You can order a guide - the cost is PLN 25 (excursion in Polish) and PLN 40 (other languages, there is no Russian or Ukrainian in the list). But there is an opportunity to order a guide for Russian-speaking tourists: for this, you must first write to the organizers. True, the cost will be higher than PLN 40.
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TOP 5 things to do in Katowice - go to a concert of your favorite band
As paradoxical as it may sound, in small Katowice, performances by musicians of the level of Red Hot Chili Peppers or Linkin Park happen much more often than in the capital of Ukraine Kiev. We do not undertake to explain this, we simply state a fact.
So, in May 2012, Emir Kusturica, Tricky or the opening of 2011 Woodkid, which is unlikely to reach Ukraine in the coming year, performed in Katowice.
Concerts are often held at the Spodek arena (10 minutes from the center), where there are cafes, restaurants and even a hotel (very convenient if you come exclusively to the concert). Also, some performances are organized in the center at Plac Sejmu Śląskiego.
TOP 5 things to do in Katowice - stay at the chic hotel Monopol
If you think that there are no decent hotels in Katowice, you are wrong. In the heart of the city is the 5-star Hotel Monopol, and if you want to relax in maximum comfort, stay here.
The hotel is located in the very center of the city on Dworcowa street 5. From Katowice train station - 2 minutes on foot. There are many shops and cozy cafes and restaurants nearby. Most importantly, there are pedestrian zones around, no cars.
The elegant art deco interior takes you back to the 30s of the 20th century. The hotel's infrastructure is impressive: 2 restaurants with traditional Polish and Italian cuisine, a separate wellness center with a swimming pool, jacuzzi, sauna and steam room, a large fitness center.
By the way, golf lovers will like the hotel very much. You will be organized a trip to the best fields, an instructor will be provided.
You can book a room at
Katowice is the 10th largest city in the south of Poland with a relatively young history. It received the status of a city 1.5 centuries ago. But the mention of settlements in these places dates back to the 2nd century, and the mention of the village of Katowice - to the 16th century. Katowice is the capital of Upper Silesia. For the inhabitants of Katowice, the renaming of the city into Stalinogrud for a period of three years was a nuisance. It is difficult to expect majestic monuments and a huge variety of monuments from such a young city, but more than a hundred objects are included in the register of monuments.
How to get to Katowice?
You are arriving at the Katowice-Pyrzowice International Airport, located 30 km from the city of Katowice. The airport is small and cozy with two terminals. As always, you can use public transport or taxi services. We recommend to visit.
The bus between the city and the airport runs every hour, the fare is PLN 23. Buy a ticket directly from the driver. The bus stop is located near Terminal A. You can also use the services of private buses and minibuses, the fare will vary from 20 to 30 zlotys, and in the comfort of the transfer you will lose.
Official motor vehicles are located right outside the airport. A taxi to the city costs $ 35. The journey will take no more than 40 minutes.
Best season to visit
Katowice is a city that is amazingly beautiful at any time of the year. In the winter months, the temperature is slightly above zero, and in the summer there is no terrifying heat - a cool, comfortable temperature around 20 degrees. Therefore, when planning a visit to the city, start solely from your preferences.
Prices in hotels and shops in Katowice
Katowice and are relatively small cities, where you will not find a huge selection of hotels or hostels. If you are traveling in the summer during the holiday season, then the question of a hotel should be puzzled at home. At any other time, as a rule, there are no problems with the selection of housing.
The hostel will cost you $ 15, and in the morning you will also be offered a free breakfast. Three star hotels will ask for $ 65. The cost of a regular room in hotels with 4 and more stars can go up to $ 200. If you are only interested in the best, the 5-star Hotel Monopol is located in the city center in the pedestrian zone, with elegant décor of the 1930s style. Nearby are cozy cafes, restaurants, attractions within walking distance.
In the pedestrianized part of the city, you will find small shops where you can pick up souvenirs. There are also several large shopping centers in the city. Prices in Katowice are generally low. But shopaholics are strongly advised to visit the Silesia Cité Center, 111 Chozovska Street.
Most stores offer a tax free refund. Check the markings in stores and be sure to warn the seller that you need to complete a purchase with a tax free form. When leaving the country, inform the Polish border guard that you want to get your taxes refunded, then follow his instructions.
A cafe will cost you $ 10. The whole city is famous for the vegetarian institution "Golden Donkey" - a must-see. There are many restaurants serving national cuisine in the vicinity of the city.
Transport
The city has a well-developed public transport, you can get to any place by bus. The stops are conveniently located for tourist routes. However, plan your route, because after 11 pm the fare doubles. The dual rate will be valid until 5 am. A similar scheme works with taxis, the night rate is twice as high.
What to see in Katowice?
The infamous Auschwitz is located 30 km from the city, you can get there by train for $ 5 or by bus. The bus from Katowice takes about an hour, it is better to leave early in the morning. Only a group of tourists can get to the memorial complex, the ticket will cost $ 12, but there are no Russian-speaking guides.
Visiting Katowice, you should see a unique wooden church from 1510. The Church of St. Michael the Archangel pacifies and delights. The building itself is located in a huge park, stretching over 17 hectares. Flower beds and sculptures are scattered throughout the park.
Also, you will be amazed by the indescribable architecture of St. Mary's Church, built in 1905. You can visit the oldest cemetery in the city - a Jewish one, it is almost a century and a half.
When you visit the Cathedral, do not forget to take a photo with the Pope. His statue is located nearby and depicts Pope John Paul II, who was awarded the title of honorary resident of Katowice.
Kastovice is home to the best designed monument in Poland - "Silesian Insurgents", do not pass by. The three wings symbolize the three Silesian uprisings in 1919, 1920 and 1921.
There are surprisingly many museums in the city: museum of antique interiors, historical, archaeological. For children, you can arrange an excursion to the planetarium and observatory.
The Spodek entertainment and sports center is also a must for a visit; the whole family will like it there.
The city hosts all kinds of exhibitions, fairs, concerts almost all year round, so you won't be bored. If you have time, visit the Silesian Theater. Stanislav Vyspyansky. In the vicinity, namely in the places of Sosnoviec, Zabrze, Gliwice, you can see mountains and castles.
