Museum – Memorial Chamber of the Wujek Mine in Katowice

The Museum – Memorial Chamber of the Wujek Mine in Katowice was established on the initiative of the Social Committee for the Commemoration of the Miners of the Wujek Coal Mine, and it was opened on December 1, 2008, in the former clothing warehouse of the mine. The museum focuses on commemorating the tragic events of December 16, 1981, when the mine was pacified during martial law. Since 2011, the museum has been managed by the Silesian Center for Freedom and Solidarity, which cooperates with local organizations, including the Independent Self-Governing Trade Union "Solidarity". The museum's exhibition includes three halls, featuring numerous exhibits related to the history of mining and the period of martial law, including reenactments and dioramas of conflicts. In 2021, the museum underwent a significant renovation under the direction of Wojciech Koziarski, increasing its area from 200 to 1,100 m². The new part of the museum is distinguished by a glass facade and a glazed bay window overlooking the mine buildings. The newly opened multimedia exhibition incorporates advanced technology, including 50 projectors, 80 screens, and over 100 computers, significantly enriching the visitor experience. In 2022, the city of Katowice took over from the Polish Mining Group three buildings associated with the Wujek Mine, which will be incorporated into the museum, enhancing its cultural and educational offerings. The museum not only preserves the memory of the victims of the pacification but also showcases the rich history of mining in Silesia, offering an innovative approach to education through modern technology and multimedia presentations. This place is becoming an important point on the cultural map of the region, combining history with modernity and reminding us of the significance of events from years past.