Szombierki Power Plant

The Szombierki Heat and Power Plant, formerly known as the Bobrek Power Plant, is an industrial complex built in 1920, located in Bytom and entered into the register of immovable monuments of the Silesian Voivodeship. It was constructed on the site of a planned gunpowder factory, which is evident in its solid structure typical of military facilities. The complex includes a boiler house, an engine room, the "Clock" water tower, and three factory chimneys. Its architecture, designed by Emil and Georg Zillmann, harmoniously blends into the industrial landscape. The power plant began operations on November 29, 1920, and over the following years, it developed significantly, reaching a capacity of 100 MW by 1944. After World War II, despite the removal of some equipment by the Red Army, the plant quickly resumed operations. In the 1950s, Szombierki became one of the largest power plants in Poland, achieving a capacity of 108 MW. In the 1970s, it was converted into a heat and power plant, increasing its importance in the local energy infrastructure. After 1998, the plant served as a backup heat source, and after production ceased in 2011, plans emerged to repurpose the complex. It became a venue for various cultural events, such as festivals and conferences, earning recognition and awards, including the Arts & Business Award. With plans to transform the complex into a cultural and commercial center, Szombierki was added to the Register of Monuments in 2013. Recent years have brought hope for revitalization through educational and cultural projects aimed at utilizing its unique industrial heritage in a contemporary way. In 2017, the complex opened its doors as part of the Industriada festival, attracting the attention of the local community and visitors.