As part of the EUIndTech2025 conference, the organizers prepared six study visits and guided walks aimed at showcasing some of the most fascinating places in Krakow and the Małopolska region, renowned for their cutting-edge technological solutions and cultural transformation.
Eco-Incineration Plant
One of the visits offered participants the opportunity to explore the operations of the Thermal Waste Treatment Plant in Kraków. This project significantly contributes to reducing the city’s waste, increasing the supply of green energy, and improving environmental quality. The plant was established in response to Kraków’s ecological and energy needs. It is capable of converting up to 245,000 tonnes of municipal waste annually into usable energy. Through the incineration process, the plant generates approximately 100,000 MWh of eco-friendly electricity and around 1 million GJ of thermal energy. During the visit, participants learned about the full waste conversion process—from waste delivery and thermal treatment to the management of by-products.
ASTOR Innovation Room 4.0
ASTOR’s history dates back to the 1980s, when five enthusiasts launched the company. The 1990s saw their first major investments, projects, and contracts. In 2013, ASTOR opened the ASTOR Innovation Room 4.0 (AIR 4.0), designed to demonstrate the practical use of industrial robots. Participants toured the showroom, which is open to a wide audience—from technicians and engineers to students of all disciplines, children, and seniors. The facility showcases the latest advancements in digitization, automation, and robotics.
Kraków Spa Pavilion (Pijalnia Zdrojowa)
This modern facility is located in the heart of Kraków. Its origins date back to the late 19th century, when Antoni Mateczny discovered sulphate-rich mineral springs during construction works. In 1905, he established his own spa, which quickly gained popularity beyond the Podgórze district. The original Sulphur-Saline Water Bathhouse, much like today’s Kraków Spa Pavilion, was surrounded by a lush spa park featuring walking paths, benches, gazebos, and even a scenic fish pond. During the visit, participants had the opportunity to taste the locally sourced mineral water and learn about the technological processes involved in its extraction and purification.
Podgórze and Zabłocie Districts
From 1784 (when it was granted city rights) until 1915 (when it was incorporated into Kraków), Podgórze was a thriving independent town. Its central square—designed at the crossroads leading to Wieliczka, Kalwaria, and Kraków—is home to landmarks such as the neo-Gothic Church of St. Joseph and the historic town hall. Podgórze is connected to the Kazimierz district by the Piłsudski Bridge—Kraków’s oldest surviving bridge—and, for over a decade now, by a modern pedestrian and cycling footbridge. Adjacent to Podgórze lies the district of Zabłocie, once an industrial zone filled with factories and production facilities. After 1989, the area underwent a significant revitalization, with former industrial sites transformed into office buildings, residential complexes, and cultural venues. Participants also visited the still-operational Kraków Glassworks, where they could observe the glass-forming process and view an exhibition of locally produced glassware.
