Lower Area of Vítkovice

The Vítkovice area is a national cultural monument. It is one of Europe’s most significant and best-preserved industrial heritage sites, uniquely preserving the complete technological chain from coal mining and coke production to the manufacture of pig iron in a single location.

Ostrava’s Industrial Hradčany

The Vítkovice area comprises the former Hlubina coal mine, the coking plant and the blast furnaces of the Vítkovice Ironworks. Together, these interconnected operations are often referred to as “Ostrava’s Hradčany”, reflecting their importance within the city’s history and skyline.

In the northern section lies the Hlubina Mine, which supplied coal for industrial production. The mine was directly connected to the coking plant and blast furnaces through a sophisticated network of conveyor belts, transport bridges and technological infrastructure. The central and southern sections contain a valuable collection of industrial, engineering and administrative buildings that document more than a century and a half of industrial development.

Following the Journey of Iron

Today, visitors can explore the story of iron production through guided tours and educational exhibitions. Beginning at Blast Furnace No. 1, the visitor route follows the path once taken by raw materials such as iron ore, coke and limestone.

A skip lift carries visitors to the upper sections of the blast furnace, offering spectacular views of Ostrava and the surrounding region. The tour also provides a rare opportunity to look inside the furnace itself and gain a deeper understanding of the demanding processes involved in iron production.

A Proud Past and a Vibrant Present

The origins of the Vítkovice Ironworks date back to 1828, when Rudolf Jan, Archduke of Austria, Cardinal and Archbishop of Olomouc, initiated the establishment of an ironworks in Vítkovice. The first coke-fired blast furnace in the Habsburg Monarchy was put into operation here in 1836, and over time six blast furnaces became part of the complex.

For almost 170 years, the site played a crucial role in the industrial development of the region. Following the end of production in 1998, the area underwent a major transformation and revitalisation.

Today, Dolní Vítkovice is a vibrant centre of culture, education, science and social life. The site includes attractions such as the Bolt Tower, the Gong multifunctional hall and the World of Technology, while continuing to preserve and celebrate its unique industrial heritage.