Dietl Family Mausoleum in Sosnowiec

The Dietl Family Mausoleum in Sosnowiec is a monumental structure from 1912, designed by architect Józef Pomian-Pomianowski, which currently serves as a cemetery chapel. Located in the Evangelical-Augsburg Cemetery on Smutna Street, it is one of the largest examples of cemetery architecture in the world and a testament to the multi-religious and multicultural heritage of Sosnowiec. The mausoleum, built on a circular plan using massive stone blocks and volcanic tuff, reflects inspirations drawn from ancient Roman tombs. Its interior is divided into two levels, with the upper part functioning as a cemetery chapel. The crypt contains the remains of Heinrich Dietl, the founder of the first woolen spinning mill in the Congress Kingdom of Poland, and his wife Klara, as well as burial niches for their descendants. Although the mausoleum suffered degradation after World War II and theft in the 21st century, it was entered into the register of historical monuments of the Silesian Voivodeship in 2008, and ongoing renovation works are restoring its former glory. It is open to visitors annually on November 1 and 2. In 2009, a commemorative plaque was unveiled in the cemetery to mark the 170th anniversary of Heinrich Dietl's birth, honoring his contributions to the city. The mausoleum remains an exceptionally important site from a historical, architectural, and cultural perspective, reflecting the rich history of the region.