Cisowa Mountain

Cisowa Góra is a forested hill located on the border of Katowice, Chorzów, and Ruda Śląska. It stands out for its rich vegetation, including lime, oak, and hornbeam tree stands, as well as numerous species of plants and animals characteristic of forest environments. On its slopes lies the natural and landscape complex “Uroczysko Buczyna,” where valuable specimens of beech trees can be found. Geographically, the hill belongs to the Katowice Upland and the Bytom-Katowice Plateau, serving as a significant point in the region both in terms of nature and culture. The history of Cisowa Góra dates back to the 16th century, when the area was used for ore and hard coal mining. The settlement of Załęska Hałda developed on its slopes, and from the 19th century, it became a typical working-class town. During World War II, the area around Cisowa Góra witnessed battles involving Polish self-defense units. After the war, the region underwent various urban changes, including the construction of housing estates and road infrastructure, such as the A4 highway. Cisowa Góra also served a military and defensive role, with the presence of training grounds and ammunition depots. Today, the area is used for recreational purposes, with numerous hiking and cycling trails, making it an attractive destination for both residents and tourists. The hill reaches an elevation of 338.8 meters above sea level, making it the second-highest peak in Katowice. Climate change and mining activities have significantly impacted the natural landscape, leading to land subsidence and changes in the region’s hydrology. Thus, Cisowa Góra is not only a space for physical activity but also an area with a complex history that reflects the changes the region has undergone over the centuries.