Murki

Murcki, a district of Katowice, boasts a rich history, architecture, and culture. The origin of its name is linked to the Silesian ethnolect, meaning "dirty people," which stems from a legend about children playing with pieces of coal. The area gained significance due to coal mining, with the oldest mine, "Emanuelssegen," established in 1769. In the 19th century, Murcki began to develop, especially after the construction of a railway siding in 1852. The architecture in Murcki is diverse, representing early modernism with eclectic details, and the housing estates were primarily built for miners, which influenced the characteristic layout of the buildings. At the heart of the district is Jan Kasprowicz Square, which serves as a social meeting point. Today, Murcki is exceptionally forested (86% of its area), making it one of the greenest districts of Katowice. The local culture has been developing since the early 20th century, with initiatives such as the Singing Society and the brass band at the "Murcki" mine. Artistic activities continue to this day, including at the "Południe" Municipal Cultural Center, which organizes a variety of workshops. The district is well-connected to neighboring towns, and an efficient public transportation system links it to other parts of the metropolitan area. Another interesting aspect is the numerous tourist trails running through Murcki, offering residents and visitors the opportunity to explore the local nature. In the rich history of Murcki, it is also worth mentioning its administrative transformations—from a mining settlement to an independent town between 1967 and 1975. All of this makes Murcki a place with a unique character, combining industrial heritage with contemporary social and cultural life.