The Ślęża Mountain

THE ŚLĘŻA MOUNTAIN is the highest mountain in Lower Silesia (718 metres above the sea level) and it belongs to the Sudeten Foreland. Even though the absolute height is not so great, the relative height is considerable and that is why, the size of the mountain and its appearance make an impression.

source: sleza.sobotka.net

HISTORY

In the past, the mountain used to be a place of pagan cult of the local tribes and was considered to be ‘the Olimp’ of the region. The outset of the cult dates back to 700 BC and its collapse to the 10^th century AD, when the Christianization of the region started. In the 4^th century AD, the Boii (the Gallic tribe), who started to settle down there, set up the first sanctuary which was dedicated to the solar cult and its deities. Thus, it is currently possible to encounter the sculptures and stone hard embankments connected with this cult. In the 11^th century, the mountain was still famous for its pagan celebrations, such as Kupala Night, the night of celebrating joy and conciliation. In fact, it is still celebrated in Baltic countries, Russia, Ukraine and Belarus; and in Poland it is considered to be the Polish version of the Valentine’s Day, and it is celebrated during the night of 23th and 24th of June. 

source: sleza.sobotka.net

The Boii used to start a fire called ‘Sobótka’ during that night. Now, it is the name of the town situated near the mountain. The Silesians (pol. Ślężanie) came to the region during the Migration Period between 375 and 700 AD. Later, other tribes who resided along the Oder River adopted the name, too. Hence, the name of the region – Silesia (pol. Śląsk) owes its name to those tribes of Silesians.

source: opolczykpl.wordpress.com

NOW

Nowadays, it is a popular tourist attraction, mainly because of its easy access. There are no restrictions when it comes to the visitors. Everyone will find something suitable. There are easier routes for beginners and more difficult for those who are fond of hiking. Both the elder and the parents with children will find an adequate trail. Moreover, sport cyclists may practice there, too. Dogs are also welcome. There are three routes (red, yellow and blue) which lead to the peak of the mountain, one (black) which leads round the mountain, one (green) which leads through the mountain range, one nature path, two archeological  routes and two bicycles routes.

source: dzienniklesny.pl

The peak of the mountain, however, is the most popular place to visit there because it has various conveniences and there is a lot of space to organize a meeting there. That is why, during spring and summer, organized trips of, especially, children may be encountered there. After a tiring hike to the top of the mountain, there are several places where it is possible to rest. First of all, there is a shelter which was built in 1908 and now is called the Tourist House. The place resembles the times of the Polish People’s Republic, nevertheless, it has its charm. The shelter offers hot and cold drinks, as well as, food and there are several rooms to stay in for a night (currently not available). It is also possible to start a fire in specially separated places outside the shelter.

source: fototrip.pl

Another place to visit is a church under the invocation of the Visitation which was rebuilt in 1952. During Christian Holidays, masses for the local people take place there. After its thorough renovation, the museum exposition is to be created. Both the Tourist House and the church are officially national monuments.

source: bikestats.eu/ it.slezanie.eu

RCTN Ślęża is the most recognizable element situated on the mountain because it is visible from many places all over Lower Silesia. It is a broadcasting station which was built in 1972 and its height reaches 136 metres. Furthermore, there is a post war observation tower, currently closed because of its poor condition. What attracts children’s attention is a granite carving of the bear. In 2000, the millennial cross was erected between the shelter and the church. What is more, the lovers of old castles may conduct a research on the remaining castle masonry from the 13^th century.

source: wikimedia.org

source: sleza.sobotka.net

There are certain places that can be seen from the top, for instance the Owl Mountains (Sudetes), reservois of Mietków or the city of Wrocław. There are no specific hours when the mountain may be visited, nonetheless, the shelter is opened only during the day. Last summer, when there was drought in the region, it was forbidden to climb the mountain because of the high risk of the fire. However, the place is excellent for one-day-long trip which allows you to escape from the hectic life of the big city!

Anna Niedzielska