Katowice can proudly show another unique resident – a Bebok with angel wings. “Anielik” was solemnly unveiled at high noon on January 27 near the headquarters of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Katowice. This is the 83rd Bebok in the urban space of Katowice, and its symbolism has a special meaning.
The event was attended by representatives of city authorities and the local community. Those present included Dr. Marcin Krupa – Mayor of Katowice, Grzegorz Chudy – creator of the Katowice Beboks, Beata Twardowska – President of the Silesian Angels Foundation, and Marlena Miąsko – Vice President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Katowice. Together they stressed how important the likable Bebok figures have become in promoting the city and building regional identity.
– I love this city and I’m very happy that the Beboks arouse interest in tourists and visitors to Katowice. But I am even more pleased that it is the city’s residents who are repeatedly motivated to explore the corners of our provincial capital – said Beata Twardowska – President of the Foundation during the ceremony.
The mayor of Katowice pointed out the unique character of the new Bebok.
– We already have 83 Beboks in the space of our city. This is a very large family. This one is special, because it is a bebok-angel. Thanks to all the work of Grzegorz Chudy, these Beboks no longer scare, but are positive heroes in Upper Silesia. It is also part of the promotion of our city and a great addition to everything that happens in Katowice. – said Dr. Marcin Krupa
The creator of Anielik, like the entire family of Katowice Beboks, is Grzegorz Chudy, an artist from Nikiszowiec. His figurines have been attracting attention for years and have become part of the local culture as a unique symbol of Katowice, often compared to Wrocław’s dwarves or Zielona Góra’s bachus.
Anielik – a unique Bebok with an important message
Anielik was created on the initiative of the Silesian Angels Foundation, which actively works to support those in need. It is the angelic wings of the new Bebok that are meant to remind of this mission and encourage residents and tourists to support the foundation’s activities.
The location of the statue – Opolska 15 in Katowice – is also not without significance. This is the address of the Silesian Angels Foundation and the headquarters of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Katowice, of which the organization is a member. This location not only emphasizes the cooperation of local institutions, but also encourages visitors to explore more places on the Katowice Bebok Trail.
Katowice full of Beboks
The Bebok family is growing every year, and Katowice is becoming more and more recognizable thanks to this unique attraction. Each figurine tells a different story, and their variety attracts not only tourists, but also locals who rediscover their city thanks to them.
The angel is a unique addition to this large family and a symbol of kindness and help, which is part of the activities of the Silesian Angels Foundation. It’s worth a visit to 15 Opolska Street to see this charming behemoth and, by the way, set out to find more scattered throughout the city.