Gliwice is one of many towns in the largest industrial area in Poland, paradoxically being very different from the stereotype of an Upper Silesian town. It is a city of culture, science, and enterprise, with aspirations to become a separate administrative centre in Silesia. It is one of the oldest towns in the Upper Silesian region, and it boasts a good old town and several interesting sights.
Like other towns in the Upper Silesian conurbation, Gliwice is known mainly as an industrial centre. The best-developed industries are coal mining, steel making, and the production of machinery and chemicals. The inland port on the Gliwice Canal gives it access to the Baltic Sea via the Odra River. Gliwice is also an important educational centre, home to most of the departments of the Silesian Polytechnic. The population numbers around 200,000 people.
Gliwice offers plenty of recreational opportunities as one of the greenest towns in the region. Chopin Park is an oasis of peace where you can just take a walk or visit the Palm House, one of the best local attractions.