Upper Silesian and Zagłębie Metropolis

The Upper Silesian and Zagłębie Metropolis (GZM) is a metropolitan union in the Silesian Voivodeship, established on July 1, 2017, encompassing 41 municipalities. The metropolis combines Upper Silesia and the Zagłębie Dąbrowskie region, reflecting its rich industrial history. GZM features numerous architectural attractions, including the historic housing estates of Giszowiec and Nikiszowiec in Katowice, Będzin Castle, and the Tiele-Winckler Palace in Bytom. Key cultural centers include the Silesian Opera and the Upper Silesian Museum in Bytom. Silesian Park in Chorzów, which includes a zoo and a planetarium, is a popular recreational spot. GZM organizes a series of recurring cultural events, enriching the lives of its residents. Transportation in the region is well-developed, with major transit routes running through the metropolis, and Katowice-Pyrzowice serving as a significant airport. The metropolitan authorities are structured into the GZM Assembly and an executive board, with the budget partly funded by a 5% share of the PIT tax. Despite demographic challenges, including a population decline since 1989, GZM remains a dynamic economic and cultural hub, blending diverse histories and traditions. An interesting fact is that Jaworzno, which borders GZM, did not join the metropolis, and in 2018, many municipalities expressed interest in joining the Union.