Sightseeing in Katowice - what to see. Complete travel guide

Katowice is the largest historical region of Poland that is also known as a center of heavy engineering. Mountain region Katowice is rich in coal, so mining has made this place famous and has helped to reach international economic level. Besides industrial factories and plants a large number of historical and cultural sights are found on the territory of the city. They are traditionally very popular among the tourists who visit Katowice.

The most beautiful buildings of the city are the Cathedral of Christ the Savior and Catholic Church of Holy Maria. The design of these religious facilities is thoughtful towards even slightest details. The churches are decorated with sculptures and frescos, while whole inner decoration is totally hand-made. One more amazing architectural facility is the Theater of Silesia, the building of which took place in 1906-1907.

If you enjoy visiting museums, you should start your observation from the Historical Museum that exhibits a large collection of artifacts devoted to the history of the city. Here you will also find a large collection of pictures of a famous Polish painter Witkiewicz. The results of the archeologists’ work are demonstrated in Museum of Silesia, which halls frequently store seminars devoted to ethnography and history. The Museum of Antique Interiors keeps absolutely various exhibits. Here you will find collections of jewelry, tableware, coins, gravures, furniture and sculptures. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Classical music connoisseurs should visit Silesia Concert Hall that often conducts concerts of famous European artists. On Tuesdays here take place solo concerts and on Fridays you can attend the concerts of the Philharmonic Orchestra. International Club of Books and Printed Press has become a famous cultural center where often take place various events – music performances, exhibitions and expositions. While taking a walk on the main park of the city you can make an excursion to Planetarium or Astronomic Observatory.

Among the outstanding architectural monuments of the city, it is worth noting the Church of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul. The construction of this spectacular building with a high pointed tower began in 1898, and four years later it was completed. Like many years ago, the historical building is decorated with magnificent sculptures and skilful stained-glass windows. The interior decoration of the religious building has also remained practically unchanged.

A unique historical site can be seen on the territory of Kosciuszko Park. The Church of St. Michael the Archangel is located here. It is the oldest building in the city. The church was transferred to the park in 1938. It was built in 1510 and served for more than 400 years, as a parish church in the village of Syrynia. The ancient church is notable not only for its amazing appearance, but also for its preserved old elements of decoration. Its visitors can admire the skilful carving on wood, as well as see the luxurious wooden chair, which was installed in the church in the 17th century.

Another very interesting cultural institution is the museum Silesian Hut. It is also housed in a very beautiful ancient building. In this ancient house, the atmosphere typical for the huts of Silesia at the turn of the 19th - 20th centuries was recreated as precisely as possible. In addition to household items and national costumes, the museum houses an interesting collection of paintings by local artists. The museum is known as a place for carrying out various cultural events related to the history and traditions of the city. Master classes in national cuisine are often held here.

The city has preserved many interesting architectural structures of various times, among which the beautiful Goldstein Palace. The palace was built in the second half of the 19th century for the Goldstein brothers, who owned several sawmills and at that time, were among the wealthiest inhabitants of the city. The beautiful palace in the Neo-Renaissance style initially drew attention with its exquisite decoration. Inside its hall is decorated with elaborate stucco and symbolic sculptures. Many ancient ornaments have been preserved in the palace till now. In the 20th century, the beautiful building was the location of various state institutions. Currently, the palace belongs to the city administration.