In the past there was a castle, which since the 18th century belonged to the famous aristocratic German (having also Italian roots) family of industrial magnates - the Ballestrem family, and then it was converted into a residential building. In 1945 it was burned by the soldiers of the Red Army so today there are only its relicts.

In the area of the former Ballestrems' palace there are also the ruins of the house of Karol Godula, who was their land agent. Later he has also founded his own companies, mainly coal mines and zinc foundries, and thanks to them he became wealthy very quickly and was called "The King of Zinc". Unfortunately, his private life was not as wonderful as professional life. As a young man, he was brutally assaulted by a group of brigands which crippled him. Since this time he was lame and his appearance was repugnant, so he became a recluse and lived in isolation.

That does not change the fact that Karol Godula as well as the Ballestrem family contributed to the development of industry in Ruda Śląska and the whole Upper-Silesian area and is a very important character in its history.

PS Special thanks to the models. Best wishes to you!