The Karkonosze region has been known for its glass production since the Middle Ages. This is due to the easy access to basic materials: firewood, water and quartz sand used in glass manufacturing. The area’s glassmaking traditions are now continued by the Julia Glassworks in Piechowice near Szklarska Poręba, which has been operating since 1866. At that time, the first glass decorating plant was established here, specialised in the processing of parts for chandeliers and in the production of crystal mirrors. In 1889, the construction of Fritz Heckert’s glassworks was completed, which in 1923 merged with the famous Josephine glassworks in Szklarska Poręba and the plant in Sobieszów as part of a joint-stock company under the common trade name of “Josephine”. The current name – Julia – was given to the company in 1958.

Crystal glass, which has become part of Julia’s brand recognisable all over the world, has been produced in the Piechowice glassworks for almost 150 years. The products manufactured here today are appreciated both by supporters of tradition and simple elegance, as well as by whose who embrace modern design trends.

Visiting one of the last functioning glassworks on the Polish side of the Karkonosze Mountains, you can learn about the process of creating crystal glass and take a close look at the blowing and decoration of dishes. As many as 70 specialists are involved in the process of creating each crystal vessel.

Julia offers workshops for teenagers and adults, as well as the “Mini Huta” – a special educational program for children. During the classes, you can stand directly at the workstations, feel how high the temperature is produced by the plant furnace. Along the educational path, there are stations where the individual stages of the creation of crystal glass vessels are shown: from shaping the form, through marking, decorating and grinding, to the final inspection performed by a skilled human eye. There are two company stores and a unique Crystal Café next to the works.