Genius Loci – Examples of Changes of the Image of Post-industrial Areas in Poland in the Region of the Upper Silesian Conurbation

The objective of these deliberations is to broaden the discourse relating to the effect of revitalisation measures undertaken in post-industrial areas and their references to issues connected with preserving the identity and heritage of a place. Upon the example of the Upper Silesian conurbation, the Authors shall present research reflecting how post-industrial areas can become creative urban spaces. The first to be presented will be the case of the city of Gliwice, where the territory of a former coal mine assembles the most innovative IT and R&D companies. The second case will focus on the city of Katowice, where the territory of the former coal mine have been included in structures of a zone assembling cultural facilities. In both cases, a phenomenon that seems to be extremely valuable is the attempt to change the negative image of post-industrial areas into an attractive urban space, preserving the industrial heritage.