There’s little known about the origins of Rybnik. In the Middle Ages, it was a fishermen’s settlement on an often-used merchant route passing from Krakow, Oswiecim to Raciborz and Wroclaw. The settlement’s name comes from the local fishing ponds (‘ryba’ means ‘fish’ in Polish).

At the turn of the 9th and 10th centuries, the area had three Slavonic settlements. They expanded in time to form one urban district.

City rights

The establishment of Rybnik as a city, based upon German Law, dates back to sometime before 1308. Then, the city was not yet the capital of the separate Duchy of Rybnik in its own right. It belonged to the Duchy of Raciborz.

The city became a feuding point for the Czech Crown in 1327. With time, the city developed into a local centre for trade and craftsmanship. It maintained its reputation for its fishing culture. The Husites demolished the city in the 15th century, but in 1433 Rybnik Hill saw a defeat of the supporters of Husitism.

State of Rybnik

In 1526, the city and its environs formed a separate area known as the State of Rybnik. The entire region of Silesia came under Austrian Habsburg rule. From 1740 it was part of Prussia. When King Frederic William II bought it in 1788, the State of Rybnik became a direct property of the Prussian Crown.

1818 marked the District of Rybnik’s establishment, with Rybnik as its capital. Of all local industries, the hard coal mining industry advanced the fastest.

After the First World War, the residents of the district took an active part in the Silesian Revolts. Rybnik served as one of the major centres of conspiracy in preparing the successive uprisings. The town returned to Poland in July 1922.

The city continued to be a district centre throughout the twenty years between the two world wars. As a metropolis of upwards of 28,000 inhabitants, it developed to gain renown as the second most beautiful city in Poland after Poznan. Unfortunately, the breakout of the Second World War hindered further progress.

The German Army captured the city on September 1st, after breaking the Polish army’s heroic defences. Despite the Nazi terror, resistance in many organizational units was widespread in this city. Liberation by the Soviet Army took place on 26 March 1945, after some violent fighting.

Modern Rybnik

Modern Rybnik is a hub for local administration, transportation, economy, education, and culture for neighbouring towns. It also has several historic monuments of its own that are a visit.

The fine choice of parks, squares, and gardens have earned the city a reputation as ‘the green city of Silesia’. Surrounding rivers, lakes, and forests provide many opportunities for tourism and recreation.

Among the sights you can explore in the city are the admirable Academic Church, a medieval prince’s castle, the Old Church erected between 1798 and 1801, a Late-Baroque statue of St. John Nepomucen, a classicist Old Town Hall and the District Starosty building from 1887.

Varying in size and species of plants, the countless parks, squares, and lawns draw locals and visitors alike to relax in the sun and enjoy the scented verdure.

There are paths for strolling and benches for sitting, while some green spaces have fountains and limpid pools. Rybnik’s greenery resulted in becoming first in the Kwietnik (“Flowerbed”) magazine contest for the most flowered Polish city.

Outdoor activities

If you are looking for an active break based in a city, then the area around Rybnik Reservoir offers a range of activities. This includes horse riding and water sports. Moreover, the city has as much as 200 km of cycle paths.

They link it with several nearby towns and pass through many of the area’s historic and cultural attractions. The main centers for recreation in Rybnik and its vicinity are the Sports and Recreation Center in Rybnik-Kamien, ‘Buk’ and ‘Pod Debem’ in Rudy, and the Sunday Leisure Center in Szymocice.

Rybnik Castle, also known as the Piast Castle, stands as a testament to centuries of history and architectural evolution. Its imposing silhouette graces the landscape, inviting visitors to explore its storied past.

Origins and Evolution

The origins of Rybnik Castle date back to the 12th century, a time when wooden structures dominated the landscape. Initially, it served as a defensive stronghold, strategically positioned to safeguard the surrounding lands. Over the years, the castle underwent a fascinating metamorphosis, transitioning from humble beginnings to a formidable stone structure.

The castle’s early incarnation was a modest wooden fortification, erected by the local Piast dynasty. Its primary purpose was to protect against external threats and provide refuge for the ruling family and their subjects. As the need for greater security grew, the decision was made to replace the wooden walls with stone. Skilled craftsmen meticulously constructed the castle using locally quarried stone, resulting in a more resilient and imposing structure.

During the Gothic period, the castle received significant architectural enhancements. Pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and decorative tracery adorned its walls. The castle’s facade became a canvas for intricate stonework, reflecting the prevailing architectural trends of the time.

Architectural Highlights

Exterior

The facade showcases a harmonious blend of Gothic and Renaissance styles. Elaborate window frames, ornate doorways, and delicate carvings adorn the outer walls. Towering turrets punctuate the skyline, each with its unique design. Crenelated battlements evoke images of knights and chivalry, transporting us to a bygone era.

Interior

Although visitors cannot currently explore the castle’s interior (as it serves as a magistrate court), historical records reveal a magnificent great hall. Imagine feasts, banquets, and lively gatherings within these walls. Noble chambers, private quarters, and secret passages weave a tapestry of intrigue. The castle once echoed with the footsteps of lords, ladies, and servants going about their daily lives.

The Basilica of St. Anthony of Padua is a magnificent multi-domed cathedral with a rich history spanning over 700 years.

Location and Architecture

The basilica is located at ul. Mikolowska 4. Its stunning design features multiple domes, intricate details, and a sense of grandeur that captivates visitors. The exterior alone is worth admiring, but I highly recommend stepping inside to experience its magical atmosphere.

The houses precious relics and artifacts associated with St. Anthony. Visitors can pay their respects at the tomb of St. Anthony, which is both solemn and awe-inspiring. The basilica’s interior is adorned with beautiful frescoes, stained glass windows, and ornate altars.

Address: ul. Mikolowska 4

Dr. Juliusz Roger Rybnik Hospital was an initiative of Dr. Juliusz Roger. He came to Silesia in 1847 for the job of court physician of Duke Victor I. Juliusz Roger, one of the most remarkable characters of Upper Silesia, was not only a doctor but also a naturalist and folklorist. The hospital facilities that bear his name, and whose construction he initiated, were put into use in 1869, four years after his death.

We recommend the following hotels in Rybnik for your stay:

Hotel przy Młynie

Set in Rybnik, 44 km from Górnik Zabrze, Hotel przy Młynie offers accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, and a bar. This 3-star hotel offers room service, a 24-hour front desk and free WiFi. The property is non-smoking and is located 45 km from Main Train Station Ostrava.

At the hotel, all rooms are equipped with a desk. Complete with a private bathroom fitted with a shower and free toiletries, all guest rooms at Hotel przy Młynie have a flat-screen TV and air conditioning, and some rooms also feature a seating area.

At the accommodation, the rooms are equipped with bed linen and towels. Buffet and vegetarian breakfast options are available every morning at Hotel przy Młynie. The nearest airport is Ostrava Leos Janacek Airport, 68 km from the hotel.