CULTURE

Ustronianka serves a role of a cultural patron. In 2004, Michał Bożek, the company's President, very strongly tied with Śląsk Cieszyński, bought the castle in Grodziec Śląski. The involvement of the company, which is known for its social initiatives, was the only solution that could save the pearl of architecture of Śląsk Cieszyński.* The cultural patronage of Ustronianka helped transform the castle into a center of cultural and social life and prevented the building from becoming a private logding. Michał Bożek has created a residence which also serves as a museum where cultural exhibits are collected. The castle very often hosts conferences, meetings of scholars, scientists and admirers of cultural heritage. Within cooperation with schools, the building also serves as a venue for demonstration history lessons.

Michał Bożek aims to extend the culture-shaping function of the castle. He is planning to open his private library to the public and make parts of the building available for visitors. At the same time the owner of Ustronianka has allocated some private resources to the reconstruction of both the castle and exhibits found in local museums. As a consequence of Michał Bożek's involvement and patronage, the castle, which belongs to the Polish national heritage, is being gradually restored to its splendour.

* (In Poland, 50% of palaces and manor-houses that had survived World War II were not taken care of and consequently fell into ruin).