Sleza
Although it is not very high, at 500 metres of relative height, it stands out in the panorama of the Sudeckie Foothills. It is included not only in the Crown of Sudetes but also in the Crown of Polish Mountains. Thanks to its proximity to Wrocław and Wałbrzych, it often serves as a destination for weekend getaways. Ladies and Gentlemen – here is Ślęża, the mountain of the Slavs.
It was first mentioned by the German chronicler Thietmar in the XI century, presenting it as a site of pagan worship. To this day, researchers dispute and discuss the role it played in the life of the Slavs. There is surely something to it. Even today, stone sculptures along the trails attract tourists’ attention. You can encounter “The Maiden with the Fish” or “The Bear” with its broken front paws. This complete, famous bear, also known as the Ślęża bear, awaits at the summit next to the church. While the sculptures are attributed to the Lusatian culture or Celtic influences, the history of the church is well-known, and the monument itself is worth visiting. It was built in the mid-19th century on the ruins of a castle, yet a wooden Christian chapel already stood there in the 16th century. After purchasing a ticket, you can see not only the interior of the temple but also its crypt, and perhaps most importantly – access the viewing terrace. This last point is particularly worth recommending. The view is truly breathtaking. With a little luck, you may spot the Wrocław Sky Tower. For those who value bodily pleasures more than spiritual ones, an alternative will be the apple pie from the café at the Tourist House.
Several trails lead to the summit. The most popular one is the black trail, with the bear from the direction of Sobótka, which also allows you to reach Wierzyca. There is also a yellow trail leading from Sobótka. More experienced climbers will choose the more challenging blue trail from the village of Garncarsko.
There are many options, and each path is equally interesting and picturesque.
Author of the photos and text - Bogusława Bandyk
