Municipal Forest Obora in Racibórz

The Municipal Forest "Obora" in Racibórz is an area covering 164 hectares, located on the right bank of the Oder River, in the southwestern part of the Cistercian Landscape Compositions of Great Rudy Landscape Park. This forest complex is part of the international ecological corridor known as the Upper Oder Paleovalley. The name "Obora" may derive from cattle enclosures, and historical evidence supporting this can be found in the area's past use for breeding animals for royal hunts. Within Obora, there is a cremation burial ground dating back to the 6th–9th centuries, as well as remnants of water pipelines that once supplied drinking water to the castle brewery and the city. In the 1920s, local authorities sought to take over the forest from Prince Victor III of Ratibor, and in 1928, the area was purchased by the city. Obora was transformed into a recreational site, with designated walking paths, playgrounds, sledding tracks, and a restaurant. In 2000, the Moravian Gate Arboretum was established, which is a member of the Council of Botanical Gardens. The dominant habitats in the forest are mixed and fresh forests, home to 160-year-old pines, oaks, and protected plant species such as giant horsetail and common ivy. Obora also features a mini-zoo with approximately 100 animals, walking trails, winter attractions, a municipal swimming area, and a ropes course. This place, rich in history and natural treasures, attracts both residents and tourists, offering a variety of recreational activities.