Silesian Chamber

The Silesian Room, also known as Gawlikówka, is a museum located in Katowice, in the Giszowiec district, at 3-3a Pod Lipami Square. It showcases exhibits related to the culture and art of Upper Silesia, as well as paintings and memorabilia of the painter Ewald Gawlik. The museum is a branch of the Municipal Cultural Center "Szopienice-Giszowiec". The building was designed by Jerzy and Emil Zillmann at the beginning of the 20th century and initially served as a stable and carriage house. In 1986, the facility was handed over to retired employees of the Staszic Mine, who adapted it into a club. During the renovation, it was given a traditional Silesian character. The main cultural initiative at the Silesian Room was the care of the collection of regional works by Ewald Gawlik, who used part of the premises to create his small artistic workshop. The museum enriches its collection with traditional furniture and everyday objects, gathered mainly by mine workers and residents of Giszowiec. The Silesian Room functions as a place for presenting local history, housing many personal mementos and equipment from Gawlik's former studio. In addition to the permanent exhibition, various regular activities for seniors, as well as clubs for retirees and pensioners, are organized. In the past, Gawlikówka offered museum lessons for youth, conducted by ethnographers, which included topics such as daily life in Upper Silesia and practical culinary workshops. The Silesian Room not only protects and promotes local traditions but also serves as a significant cultural hub in Giszowiec, connecting the local community and educating about regional history.