September - December 2017
Jurassic Land
Millions of years ago, between Częstochowa and Kraków the waters of the Upper Jurassic Sea were flowing. It gave the origin to unique Jurassic formations and karst phenomena leading to creation of caves and monadnocks. This area, known as the CracowCzęstochowa Jura, has become the habitat of many, often unique, representatives of fauna and flora. Scientists identified here, among others, 1500 species of vascular plants, 3000 species of insects, or 19 species of bats. There is an interesting piece of Polish history connected with Jura, presented in many colorful legends, with the characteristic Trail of the Eagles' Nests. A trail spreading between Cracow and Częstochowa, two cities of great importance to the history of Poland and to the patriotic awareness of Poles.
The richness of flora, fauna, history, legends framed with beautiful landscapes makes this peculiar Jurassic Land a wonderful background for both Częstochowa and Cracow. A background highly worth noticing and appreciating on a daily basis... This series of photo exhibitions present selected pictures of this beautiful and unusual Jurassic Land.
In the steelworks
The Mesozoic era did not spare Jura wealth. At the length of 120 km, a rich deposit of iron ore was created. Since the fourteenth century it has become a source for iron production near Częstochowa. The forgeers were created, resulting in creation of new settlements around the city, among others Konopiska, Poczesna, Błeszno, Gnaszyn or Panki. However, it had the biggest impact on Częstochowa. At the end of the 19th and the beginning of the 20th century, as an initiative of Bernard Hantke, a steel factory was built in the nearby village of Raków. At that time, it was the second largest steel factory in the region, but definitely the most modern one. Since then, despite various historical turmoil, Huta Częstochowa has permanently become the landscape of both the city and Jura. Its industrial interiors undoubtedly inspire not only from the technological, but also the artistic point of view ...
Krzysztof Muskalski
Cycle "Jurassic Land":
1. The Wiercica Valley
2. Sokole Mountains colorfully
3. Ogrodzieniec - Power fortress
4. In the steelworks
