Rozwój przemysłu i dziedzictwo poprzemysłowe jako czynniki zmieniające oblicze Zabrza

The article discusses the problem of the way Zabrze is influenced by the development of industry. In terms of the transformational processes occurring in its local cultural reality, the history of the city may be divided into three periods: rural, rural and urban and, finally, urban and postindustrial. The first two periods are associated with the socioeconomic changes which took place in Europe as a result of the industrial revolution. The third period, on the other hand, encompasses the decline of Zabrze’s industry as well as the current transformations including the revitalisations and restorations of buildings and postindustrial areas, particularly old mines which are today becoming touristic attractions. The processes are not completed, so it is necessary to remember that besides their spatial integrity, the old industrial plants must also retain their sociocultural integrity and become an element of common awareness not only for Zabrze’s inhabitants.