Poland has a rich and long history. Here, all cities have a centuries-old supply of legends and true stories about their long past. And even the relatively young city of Katowice, founded in the early 19th century, will have a history much older than its official age. The first settlement in these places appeared in the 14th century, and already in the 18th century the first coal mine appeared. Katowice remains the center of the Polish coal industry to this day.

Entertainment and attractions Katowice

Just 30 kilometers from Katowice is the world-famous Auschwitz. By train you can get from the city to the Auschwitz-Birkenau memorial complex, excursions are carried out only as part of organized groups and costs a maximum of 10 EUR. It is better not to take children with you, because visiting this mournful place makes a very strong and depressing impression.

Despite all its modernity and industriality, Katowice is an interesting city. The Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary, built in the neo-Gothic style, the Cathedral of Christ the Savior in the Baroque style and the wooden church of St. Michael the Archangel are beautiful examples of architecture of past centuries. Of the modern buildings stand out: a monument to the heroes of the three Silesian uprisings, sports and entertainment center “Spodek”, a monumental Silesian concert hall. The city has a large number of museums: historical, archaeological, museum of antique interiors and even an excellent planetarium with an observatory.

Fans of a quiet holiday will be interested in trips to the nearby towns of Racibórz, Gliwice, Sosnowiec, Zabrze, where you can admire the mountains and castles. And, of course, many different festivals (theatrical, blues and metal, cinematic and folklore) taking place in the city from spring to autumn. But all kinds of exhibitions and concerts are held here all year round, so it is very, very difficult to call Katowice dull.