Anna Sulimowska-Ociepka
Przegląd Kulturoznawczy, Numer 1 (27) , 2016, s. 60 - 72
https://doi.org/10.4467/20843860PK.16.005.5045Troublesome heritage – old workers’ estates of Upper Silesia
In the cultural landscape of Upper Silesian Agglomeration, evolving at the turn of 20th century, there is usually lack of elements that are commonly recognised as the valuable cultural heritage. However, in this amorphous urban space one can find objects of historical value. Among the postindustrial historical buildings still exist old workers’ estates, which are inseparably connected with the industrialisation and urbanisation of the region. They were evidence of civilisation progress and set social life norms for generations of Upper Silesians. Nowadays, because of long term neglect and during the restructuring of traditional industry they have become social exclusion areas. Although they are a part of the European industrial culture and the awareness of their value is increasing, they are still troublesome heritage, because they face numerous structural and socio-economic problems.