Sports Arena Spodek

Spodek (in Polish "Plate") is a multi-purpose hall in Katowice with a capacity of 11,500 spectators. It was opened in 1971 and served its original purpose until 1997. The complex includes a gymnasium, an ice rink, a hotel, and three parking lots in addition to the main arena. Until 2014, Spodek was the largest covered sports hall in Poland.
The original idea to build a hall came in 1955 when Katowice was briefly renamed Stalinogród. In a competition, the best design was selected, but contrary to the original intention to build the hall on the outskirts of the city, a spoil heap near the center was chosen. While digging the foundations, workers mined coal instead of soil. During construction, cracks began to appear, raising questions about whether the roof structure would remain stable after the scaffolding was removed. In 1964, construction was even halted for 18 months. A load test was conducted with the help of 3,500 soldiers.