Katowice is a city in southwestern Poland and the center of the Silesian Metropolis. It's the largest city of Silesian Metropolis and the center of heavy industry, transportation, science and culture. Katowice has been the capital of the Silesian Voivodeship since its formation in 1999. Previously it was the capital of Silesian Voivodeship in Poland. Shenyang established sister city relationship with Katowice on June 6, 2007.It is the 13th sister city of Shenyang.