Katowice Upland

The Katowice Upland is a geographical region covering an area of 1215 km², located in southern Poland, in the vicinity of Katowice. It is distinguished by its hilly landscape, with elevations ranging from 250 to 300 meters above sea level, and its highest peaks, such as St. Dorothy’s Hill in Będzin (382 m) or Wanda Hill in Katowice (357 m). The region forms the central part of the Silesian Upland and is characterized by diverse terrain, featuring both uplifted areas and subsidence depressions, primarily composed of shales, sandstones, and limestones. Geomorphologically varied, the upland is divided into four microregions: the Bytom-Katowice Plateau, the Mikołów Block, the Mysłowice Basin, and the Dąbrowa Highlands. This area is highly urbanized and industrialized, forming the core of the Upper Silesian-Zagłębie Metropolis, which has led to significant transformations of the natural environment. Over 45% of its surface is occupied by anthropogenic landscapes, and intensive industrial activity, especially mining and metallurgy, has resulted in severe air and water pollution, as well as land subsidence. As a consequence of ground sinking, the Goczałkowice Reservoir was constructed to counteract water shortages. Architecturally, the region was rich in eclectic building styles typical of Silesian industrial cities, and many historical structures can still be found here today. Culturally, the Katowice Upland is embedded in a rich context of industrial tradition, where local communities, art, and cultural activities have flourished. The region is known for its high energy consumption and pollution emissions, which have spurred the emergence of environmental protection initiatives. It is also worth noting that, due to its history and transformation, the Katowice Upland serves as an example of how intensive industrial activity can impact both the environment and the lives of its inhabitants. In response to these challenges, local authorities and organizations are undertaking efforts aimed at ecological rehabilitation and the sustainable development of the region.