Kościuszko Park

Kościuszko Park (Park im. Tadeusza Kościuszki) is a large public park south of Katowice's centre and one of the oldest in the city, opened in 1888 and now spread across roughly 72 hectares. People come for the walking and cycling paths, the mature tree collection of over 90 species, and two unusual landmarks: a wooden church from 1510 and Poland's only parachute tower.

The park covers about 72 hectares, a big jump from the six hectares it started with in 1888, and holds more than 90 species of trees and shrubs along its paths and lawns. Its best-known feature is the wooden Church of St. Michael the Archangel, built in 1510 and moved here in 1938, which is regarded as the oldest sacred building in Katowice. Nearby stands the park's other landmark, the only parachute tower in Poland. Together they give an otherwise quiet green space two clear points to walk towards.

Kościuszko Park opened in 1888 as a modest six-hectare green space and grew over the following decades into one of the largest in the city. The wooden Church of St. Michael the Archangel is far older than the park itself: it dates to 1510 and was relocated to this site in 1938, which makes it the oldest surviving sacred building in Katowice. Standing in the middle of a modern industrial city, the timber church is a rare survival from the region's rural past.

This is a park for slow, active days rather than sightseeing checklists, and it works well for walking, cycling, jogging and general recreation. Families, runners and anyone wanting a break from the city centre will find plenty of room across its 72 hectares. Entry to the grounds is free, though hours and access for the historic church can vary, so check official channels before a visit if seeing the interior matters to you.

Kościuszko Park sits south of the centre, close enough to reach on foot or by tram when you want green space away from the concrete core. It pairs naturally with a wider day out in the city, and you can plan the rest of your route using our Katowice guide. Come here to unwind, then head back into town for museums, food and the post-industrial architecture Katowice is known for.