Dreams of steel and solidarity rise from the earth here at Huta. What you see now only hints at the vibrant history of this place. Huta in Warsaw is more than just a district. It is a testament to Poland’s industrial might and its people’s unwavering spirit.
Let’s journey back to the 1950s. Imagine a city rising from the ashes of war. In 1952, the erection of Huta Warszawa began. This was a pivotal moment for Warsaw. The city needed to rebuild and reclaim its industrial strength. By 1957, the first production department. The Steel Foundry was up and running marking a new era for Huta.
The following years saw rapid expansion. In 1958, the Steel Shop and Forging Shop commenced operations. A Blooming Mill started in 1960, with a Drawing Mill following in 1961. By 1962, Heavy Section and Small Section Rolling Mills were added. Huta was quickly becoming an industrial giant. A Cold Strip Mill appeared in 1965. A Medium Section Rolling Mill was added in 1968.
The 1970s brought further growth. In 1972, the expansion of the Steelworks was completed. The fifth electric furnace increased capacity. It could handle 50 tons. In 1974, the Research Center of the Institute of Metallurgy of the AGH University of Science and Technology was established here. This cemented Huta’s role as a hub of innovation. In 1978, the first stage of construction of the metallurgical Recreation and Sports Center in Młociny was finished.
But Huta’s story isn’t just about steel. It is also about courage and resistance. In September 1939, this area witnessed the heroic defense known as the “Warsaw Thermopylae”. The 1st battalion of the 30th Kaniowski Infantry Regiment faced the German 24th Infantry Division. They were supported by tanks and 70 guns. The defenders lost around 600 soldiers but they helped other Polish forces retreat into Warsaw. In 1979, the “Warsaw Thermopylae” monument was unveiled here to commemorate this fight.
The 1980s saw Huta become a symbol of solidarity. On August 28, 1980, Huta Warszawa was the first plant in the capital to strike in solidarity with the striking workers of the Coast. Father Jerzy Popiełuszko celebrated a mass for striking steelworkers on August 31. A monument was erected in front of the steelworks. It was created by Jerzy Szulc an electrician and crane operator.
After the fall of communism Huta faced new challenges. It was privatized in 1992. A joint venture with LUCCHINI Group established HUTA L.W. Sp. z o.o. Modernization efforts continued throughout the 1990s. New Steel Shop started up in 1998. Arcelor Group took over Huta L.W. in 2005. The company was renamed Arcelor Huta Warszawa Sp. z o.o.
Today, Huta continues to evolve. It is now known as ArcelorMittal Warszawa. It remains a key player in the steel industry producing long products for various sectors. The company focuses on sustainability quality and leadership. It is committed to the health and safety of its employees. Huta is more than just a steel plant. It is a living monument to Warsaw’s past present and future. As you stand here remember the dreams the struggles and the triumphs that have shaped this place.