On October 21-22, 2022, the first scientific and didactic seminar organized by the Department of Economic and Social History/UNESCO Chair for Heritage and Urban Studies dedicated to students of Urban Studies took place. The seminar had an off-site character – to Rzeszow and was held under the theme Rzeszow as a nascent metropolis.
The seminar was held under the patronage of the Mayor of Rzeszow Konrad Fijołek.
Participants in the seminar were employees of the Department organizing the seminar and representatives of the first and second year of the Urban Studies course. The program of the two-day seminar included the following points:
– on the way to Rzeszow introductory short lectures on the history, architecture and urban planning and problems of development of the metropolis on the Wislok River;
– a sightseeing tour of one of the most attractive places for investment in southeastern Poland – the Podkarpackie Science and Technology Park AEROPOLIS, which is part of the Special Economic Zone “EURO PARK Mielec”, as well as the areas of the Aviation Valley and the Rzeszów-Jasionka airport itself;
– a visit to Glogow Malopolski and a tour of the historic market square after first tasting pizza at the “Gusto” restaurant, made famous by President Biden’s visit;
– a metropolitan debate at the office of the City Architect. Architect Janusz Sepiol, who holds this position, presented visions related to the development of Rzeszow and also pointed out current problems facing the city and its residents. The meeting was also attended by the long-time chairman of the Rzeszow City Council and president of the Rzeszow Branch of the Association of Polish Architects;
– a tour of the historic center of Rzeszow in terms of architectural heritage and urban development of the city;
– a meeting at the Urban Lab headquarters where the future of Rzeszow and its aspirations for the title of European City of Culture were debated. Urban Studies students had the opportunity to share their impressions of the trip and its significance for their further education. The seminar with its rich program and maximum use of time for urban affairs was very fruitful and fostered integration.
