Mariusz Jankowski: Poland’s 2027 Capital of Culture could permanently change the way we move around Katowice [VIDEO]

KNM2026

Mariusz Jankowski: Poland’s 2027 Cultural Capital title could permanently change the way we move around Katowice [VIDEO]

In the ORLEN-powered Congress Studio, we spoke with Mariusz Jankowski, Head of the Investors’ Services Department in Katowice

Photo source: PSNM

Can a cultural year permanently change the way we navigate a city? Katowice has already experienced the process of bidding for the title of European Cultural Capital. In the KNM ORLEN-powered Studio, we discuss this with Mariusz Jankowski from the Investors’ Services Department of the Katowice City Hall.

In 2027, Katowice will be Poland’s Capital of Culture. Major cultural events can temporarily change the way we use the city: streets are closed off, space is given to pedestrians, and new connections are created. At the Congress on New Mobility, we asked what can be done to ensure these changes stay with residents for longer and don’t end once the festival is over.

Mariusz Jankowski draws on experiences from a few decades ago when Katowice applied for the title of European Capital of Culture. Although they didn’t win the title, according to our interlocutor, that earlier effort left a lasting impact on the residents’ mindset. The city became more open to change, and its community learned to express its expectations more clearly. Jankowski expects a similar transformation in the field of mobility now.

The key lies in the metropolitan character of the region. In the polycentric city structure of the Silesian Metropolitan Area, transportation is the main factor that integrates it and serves as a source of its potential. Katowice also has extensive experience in the meetings industry, which drives the local economy and fosters social energy. What role will public transportation and electromobility play in this process? We invite you to watch the interview.