Janów

Janów, a district of Katowice located in the eastern part of the city, has a rich history dating back to the 18th century when it was a forest settlement. Associated with the Mieroszewski family, Janów became a site of industrial development driven by coal mines and zinc smelting. In the early 20th century, unique workers' housing estates—Giszowiec and Nikiszowiec—were established here. Historically linked to the municipality of Mysłowice, Janów shifted towards a residential and service-oriented profile after the economic transformation. The main artery of Janów is Oswobodzenia Street, and a railway line running through the area handles freight traffic. The district is home to the Janów Group, a collective of amateur painters, and the ice hockey club Naprzód Janów, founded in 1920. Architecturally, the area features traditional buildings, with a significant landmark being the English garden featuring the Mieroszewski Monument, which forms part of the region's cultural heritage. Janów also hosts the Szyb Wilson Gallery, the largest private art gallery in Poland, dedicated to contemporary art exhibitions. The district has its own local educational institutions, including kindergartens and a special-needs primary school. Many important historical events are tied to Janów, such as its role during the Silesian Uprisings, when it served as a key center of clandestine activities. Over the years, the residents of Janów have been actively involved in social, cultural, and sporting initiatives, making it a significant location on the map of Upper Silesia.