The Dietl Palace, located at 2 Żeromskiego Street in Sosnowiec, is a true gem of eclectic architecture from the late 19th century. It was built for German industrialist Heinrich Dietl, who was one of the richest and most influential people in the region. Construction of the palace lasted from 1890 to 1900, and the project was created by Berlin architect Emil Zillmann.

The exterior facade of the palace may not make a stunning impression at first glance, but it is the interiors that hide the real treasures. The palace is an example of eclecticism in architecture, which means that it combines different styles and eras. We can find elements of Neo-Baroque, Neo-Rococo and even Art Nouveau.

After World War II, the palace went through difficult times. It was used for various purposes, which led to significant degradation of its condition. Fortunately, intensive restoration work has been undertaken in recent years, bringing the place back to its former glory. Today, Dietl Palace is not only a tourist attraction, but also a popular movie set, which confirms its unique character and atmosphere.

One of the most spectacular elements of the palace is the aforementioned bathroom, considered the most beautiful in Poland. It was here that John Malkovich bathed during his stay in Sosnowiec. The bathroom impresses with its richness of detail, marble, gilding and a beautiful bathtub, which is the centerpiece of the room. It's a place that takes you back in time to an era of the greatest splendor and elegance.

A visit to the Dietl Palace is a real feast for the senses and an unforgettable lesson in history. The palace is open to the public every first Saturday of the month and on the first and third Wednesday of each month at 11:00 a.m. However, it is worth calling in advance and making sure of the opening hours to avoid disappointment.

When visiting the palace, be sure to take note of the following:

1. the Ballroom - a two-story room of impressive size, decorated in the Neo-Baroque style. It was here that the most important receptions and balls were held.

2. Bathroom - the famous 'most beautiful bathroom in Poland', where John Malkovich bathed. The room impresses with its richness of decoration, marble elements and a centrally located luxurious bathtub.

3. the Dining Room - a monumental, neo-Baroque room that was used for sumptuous dinners and banquets.

4. Staircase - artistically designed, it is a work of art in itself and connects the different levels of the palace.

5. Murano chandeliers - glass works of art that add glamour and elegance to the interiors.

Each of the palace's rooms was designed in a different style, which makes the tour like a journey through different eras and trends in interior design. Note the richness of the materials used to finish the interiors - from marble, to stucco, to gilding and precious wood elements.

The tour is conducted with a guide, who tells in a fascinating way about the history of the palace, its inhabitants and interesting facts about the place. It's a great opportunity to learn more about the lives of the industrial elite of the Zagłębie Dąbrowskie region at the time, and to understand how great an impact the Dietl family had on the development of the region.

A visit to the Dietl Palace is a great opportunity to learn about other attractions of Sosnowiec and the surrounding area. Here are some suggestions to consider when planning your trip:

1. Dietl Park - located just outside the palace fence. It is a beautifully landscaped green area, ideal for a walk and a rest after sightseeing. The park was established in the same period as the palace and was an integral part of it.

2. the Evangelical Church - a historic temple located opposite the palace. Its neo-Gothic architecture is worth noting.

3. The former administrative building of the worsted spinning mill - now houses the police station. This is another example of industrial architecture from the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries.

4. The remains of Dietl's worsted spinning mill - although not open to the public, they are an important part of Sosnowiec's industrial landscape.

5. The former building of the Real School - later home of the Staszic High School and the Faculty of Technology of the University of Silesia. This building can be admired from Dietl Park.

It is also worth remembering that Sosnowiec is an excellent base for exploring other cities in Upper Silesia and Zagłębie. Within a short distance are such attractions as:

• Katowice with its modern center and Cultural Zone
• The historic silver mine in Tarnowskie Góry (listed on the UNESCO list)
• Castle in Bedzin
• Silesian Park in Chorzow

Dietl Palace in Sosnowiec is not only a beautiful monument, but also a symbol of the changes that have taken place in the region. On the one hand, it reminds us of the industrial splendor of the Zagłębie Dąbrowskie region, while on the other it shows how old buildings can gain new life and become tourist attractions. A visit here is not only a lesson in history and architecture, but also an opportunity to reflect on the social and economic changes that have taken place in Poland in recent decades.

Whether you are a lover of history, architecture, or just looking for an interesting place for a weekend getaway, Dietl Palace will certainly not disappoint you. And who knows, maybe you too will have the opportunity to feel like a Hollywood star in the most beautiful bathroom in Poland?