The Tourist Guide
Oko na Świat
Poland – Europe
SIGHTSEEING
Here, you will find the most important landmarks, along with information about their locations, entrance fees, accessibility, and brief descriptions of their historical significance, making your sightseeing easier.
Curiosities
Here, you will discover local curiosities—legends, tales, traditions, symbols, and cultural events—that will allow you to explore the city from an unconventional perspective.
History
Here, you will find historical facts. In just a few paragraphs, you will learn about the history of the selected city, from the Middle Ages to modern times, enhancing your immersion and helping you better understand what you are exploring.
What to See
NEWS
Poland
- Pszczyna is a true hidden gem of Silesia. The local castle impresses with its original, well-preserved interior—an exceptional rarity on a European scale. The expansive parks surrounding it, combined with historic architecture, give the town a truly one-of-a-kind atmosphere.
- Pszczyna served as a source of inspiration for one of the most outstanding musicians of the 18th century. According to legend, it was here that a fleeing Polish king was stopped. And Pszczyna also... saved Poland’s bison population?
- The history of Pszczyna stands out among the towns that surround it. Until World War II, it was ruled by local dukes who actively supported the development of architecture, art, and music.
Poland
Prudnik
- Prudnik boasts attractions unique on a national scale — here you’ll find the oldest private tower in Poland, one of the most richly decorated villas, and the oldest fountain in Upper Silesia.
- It was home to one of the largest companies in Upper Silesia, whose products were distributed across all continents. It’s also the place where medieval relics hidden by the Nazis were discovered. And in the 14th century, the townspeople… burned down their own city?
- Once the largest town in Upper Silesia, Prudnik hosted the Opole regional assembly, and local goods were already being exported to Western Europe at the turn of the 15th and 16th centuries.
Click on the region!
INTERACTIVE MAP OF POLAND AND ITS SURROUNDINGS
SILESIA
Lesser Poland
(soon)
POLAND – THE CZECH REPUBLIC
SILESIA
Sightseeing
Silesia is a truly unique region in Europe—a place where various cultures, nationalities, and religions have intersected for centuries. This remarkable diversity is reflected in its architecture: alongside medieval castles tied to the histories of Poland and the Czech lands, you can admire elegant palaces, imposing fortresses, and sculptures erected by Austrians and Germans.
Silesia is home to landmarks unparalleled in Poland, such as the country’s oldest private building and the only Romanesque rotunda with a preserved nave. Among its many attractions, the region stands out for its wealth of sacred architecture. Here, 13th-century churches housing the remains of Piast dynasty dukes coexist with later Protestant churches, creating a fascinating cultural landscape.
But let’s not forget the more modern attractions! After all, Silesia is home to Poland’s capital of music. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore scenic walking and cycling routes along reservoirs that bring to mind the charm of Venice. The local wildlife is also impressive—after all, here you can find… bison?
A trip to Silesia is the perfect opportunity to rediscover Poland!
Curiosities
Silesia is the cradle of many ancient Slavic myths and legends. Its proximity to the Oder River fueled stories of water spirits, midday demons, and other supernatural beings for centuries. Some old traditions, like the drowning of Marzanna, have survived to this day, and nearly every Silesian town has its own unique legend.
Over time, local customs evolved under the influence of Austrians and Germans, who brought their own traditions. As a result, Silesia became a fascinating blend of Western European customs interwoven with its native heritage.
Silesia has long been one of Europe’s most important regions, home to remarkable historical figures and events. To this day, some Silesian dukes still retain their noble titles. In the 18th century, a company from Upper Silesia conquered the global market, and not long ago, the President of the United States was… a Piast?
Exploring Silesian traditions offers a deeper understanding of its extraordinary cultural heritage.
History
What makes Silesia truly unique is its location at the crossroads of multiple nations and cultures. In the Middle Ages, divided into numerous duchies, it became a battleground for the kings of Poland and Bohemia. Power struggles led to wars and shifting alliances, but this did not mean that the Silesians were mere bystanders—Silesian duchies left a significant mark on the history of Central and Eastern Europe.
Even after the fall of both kingdoms, Silesia remained a contested land. This time, it was the Austrian Habsburgs and the rising power of Prussia who fought over it. At the same time, urbanization and industrial development accelerated, alongside a growing sense of national identity among its inhabitants, including Poles.
Silesia’s turbulent past led to the formation of several distinct historical regions, such as Upper Silesia, Lower Silesia, Cieszyn Silesia, and Opavian Silesia. Each of these regions has its own unique identity, serving as a testament to how history continues to shape the present.
Understanding Silesia’s past allows for a deeper appreciation of its modern character.
Oko na Świat © Artur Gołębiowski