The market square in Katowice – a place which no longer exists – an evolution of the spatial structure

This study attempts to explain why the space in the centre of Katowice is formally called “The Market Square” even though the square itself no longer exists. Some archival documents and existing studies are analysed. The evolution of the market square in Katowice is presented against the background of historical and economic transformations, putting an emphasis on depicting valuable and interesting architecture that was irretrievably lost and replaced with entirely new urban fabric. Moreover, the article aims to show that the region of Upper Silesia does not only constitute industrial plants but also, created by the mixture of cultures and nationalities, other types of architecture, that was irretrievably lost. It was found out that the market is not actually the main square.