GEOsfera is located in Jaworzno, in the depression of the former Sadowa Góra Triassic limestone quarry. The exposed rock layers, rich in fossils, contain remains of crinoids, molluscs, cephalopods, fish and a nothosaur. Here, geology comes to life through these specific finds: the different remains offer a glimpse into the variety of discoveries from the layers.
Quarry landscapes and changing habitats
Arboretum Park Gródek also has a quarry history: it covers 58.54 hectares of former dolomite quarries belonging to the former Szczakowa cement works. Its landscape ranges from sun-loving dry grasslands, meadows and rocky habitats to wetlands and bodies of water. There are also pine forests and oak-hornbeam forests. Jaworzno thus offers two different ways to explore former extraction sites: at GEOsfera, the focus is on rock and fossils; at Gródek, on habitats and landscape.
A distinctive, winding path runs through the Wydra reservoir in the arboretum, offering views of the surroundings from the water. It creates a special feature within the park’s varied landscape. When you compare GEOsfera and Gródek, you move from looking at exposed layers to observing bodies of water, forests and open habitats.
Natural areas and views
The Dolina Żabnika nature reserve has been protected since June 1996 and covers 42 hectares. You can reach it on foot or by bicycle via the green trail. The Dobra-Wilkoszyn protected landscape area was established to protect rare plants and sulfur-rich water springs. The two areas highlight different priorities for nature conservation in Jaworzno: a designated nature reserve in one case, and the protection of specific plants and springs in the other.
Góra Przygoń offers a different perspective. At almost 355 metres above sea level, it is the highest point in Jaworzno; from here, you can see across the entire city. You can think of this viewpoint as a complement to the lower-lying park and waterside landscapes. The natural areas therefore differ not only in the features they protect, but also in the viewpoints they offer.
Urban history and culture
The Muzeum Miasta Jaworzna collects and displays objects of material culture and works of art directly connected with Jaworzno and its region. The collection began with old mining maps and plans acquired from mines. This early focus connects the museum collection with a specific part of the city’s history and complements GEOsfera’s geological insights with evidence of human labour.
The collegiate church in Jaworzno also offers a historical point of reference: the parish has a history spanning more than 700 years. The church in Jaworzno was elevated to collegiate status in 1997. The Rynek, by contrast, catches the eye with its unusual shape: the square is distinguished by its irregular triangular layout. The museum, collegiate church and Rynek thus offer different perspectives on Jaworzno—from collection pieces and church history to the distinctive form of a central square.
Routes, water and practical information
For a longer trip, you can choose between two routes with different designations. The black-marked cycling loop around Jaworzno is 48.5 kilometres long. The red hiking trail is a 58.4-kilometre circular route that starts and ends at PKP Jaworzno Szczakowa railway station. These details let you compare the route lengths and types; choose between the cycling loop and hiking route according to how you plan to explore.
Zalew Sosina lies in the east of Jaworzno, in the Pieczyska district. It has a supervised bathing area and offers pedal boats and kayaks for hire. Before your trip, check whether the bathing area is open for the season and rentals are available. You can reach GEOsfera on PKM Jaworzno city bus route 304, getting off at the “GEOsfera” stop. As timetables can change, it’s worth checking the schedule before you travel.
Discover more destinations: Jaworzno, Myslowitz, Bielsko-Biała, Gliwice, Będzin, Racibórz, Wodzisław, Lubliniec.
Back to the main travel overview: Silesia.
