Happy TravellerWelcome to Będzin, a picturesque city located in the Silesian Highlands of southern Poland. Although it is part of the Silesian Voivodeship, Będzin belongs to the historic Lesser Poland region, and it is one of the oldest towns in the province. With a population of 55,183, Będzin is considered the capital of industrial Dąbrowa Basin and a key player in the highly industrialized and densely populated Zagłębie Dąbrowskie. Known for its rich history and vibrant culture, Będzin is a city worth exploring.
Będzin is situated on the banks of the Czarna Przemsza River, a tributary of the Vistula River. The town’s highest point is St. Dorothy Mountain, which stands at 382 meters (1,253 feet) above sea level. The city borders several other cities, including Sosnowiec, Dąbrowa Górnicza, Czeladź, Siemianowice Śląskie, and Wojkowice, as well as the village of Psary.
Będzin is home to eight districts: Grodziec, Gzichów, Ksawera, Łagisza, Małobądz, Śródmieście, Warpie and the historic center.
The name Będzin probably comes from ancient Polish given name Beda or Bedzan. The town was also called Banden, Bandin, Bandzien, Bondin, Bandzen, Bandzin, Badzin, Bendzin, and Bendsburg (1939–1945).
First mentioned in 1301, Będzin has a rich history dating back to the 9th century when a settlement or grod was established here, guarding the ancient trade route from Kyiv to Western Europe. In the 1560s, King Sigismund II Augustus allowed the town to have five markets a week, and in 1655, both the town and the castle were destroyed by the Swedes during The Deluge.
During the industrial revolution, Będzin’s rich coal deposits brought rapid urbanization and industrialization to the town and its vicinity. In 1858, Będzin got its first rail connection, thanks to the construction of the Warsaw–Vienna railway. During World War II, the town was captured by the Germans and renamed Bendsburg. The Germans committed many atrocities in the city, including the murder of 100 Jews and the establishment of the Będzin Ghetto.
Today, Będzin is a thriving city with a rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the reconstructed castle, which now houses the Museum of Zagłębie, and wander through the historic center to see the colorful townhouses and the Holy Trinity Church which provided shelter to Jews during the war. Sports enthusiasts can catch a game of volleyball at the city’s most notable sports club, MKS Będzin. Foodies can indulge in mouthwatering local cuisine and shop for souvenirs in the charming marketplaces.
Będzin is conveniently located at the intersection of two national roads – the 94th (Zgorzelec – Kraków) and the 86th (Katowice – Warsaw). The town is also a rail hub, with three rail stations and convenient bus and tram connections to neighboring cities. Katowice International Airport is located 23 km (14 mi) away, at Pyrzowice.
Come and discover the hidden charms of Będzin for yourself. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes, this city is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Poland.
