Category: Castles & Palaces

Category: Castles & Palaces

Lower Silesia (Dolnoslaskie)

Lower Silesia

Lower Silesia – updated 19 January 2023.

Lower Silesia, also known as Dolnośląskie, is a region located in the southwestern part of Poland. It is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and beautiful natural landscapes. The region is home to many tourist attractions that are sure to appeal to visitors of all ages and interests.

Lower Silesia

Wrocław

One of the most popular tourist destinations in Lower Silesia is the city of Wrocław. This charming city is the largest in the region and is known for its well-preserved old town, which is filled with beautiful architecture and historic landmarks. Visitors can explore the city's many museums, including the National Museum, which houses a collection of Polish art, and the Ethnographic Museum, which offers a glimpse into the region's traditional way of life.

Karkonosze Mountains

Another popular attraction in Lower Silesia is the Karkonosze Mountains. This beautiful mountain range is located on the border of Poland and the Czech Republic and is a popular spot for hiking and skiing. Visitors can take a cable car to the top of the mountain and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area. The Karkonosze National Park is also a great destination for nature lovers, with its many trails, waterfalls, and wildlife.

Ksiaz Castle

Castles and palaces

The region is also home to many castles and palaces, which are a testament to its rich history. One of the most famous of these is the Książ Castle, which is located in the city of Wałbrzych. This magnificent castle was built in the 13th century and has been beautifully restored. Visitors can explore the castle's many rooms and galleries and learn about its history.

Jelenia Góra

Another popular destination in Lower Silesia is the town of Jelenia Góra. This picturesque town is located in the heart of the Karkonosze Mountains and is known for its beautiful architecture and charming streets. Visitors can explore the town's many churches and museums, including the Museum of the Karkonosze Mountains, which offers a glimpse into the region's natural history.

Outdoor activities

For those interested in outdoor activities, Lower Silesia offers many opportunities for hiking, skiing, and cycling. The Sudety Mountains and Karkonosze Mountains are popular destinations for hiking and skiing, while the Odra River valley offers many opportunities for cycling. There are also many beautiful lakes and rivers, such as Śnieżka, where visitors can enjoy water sports and fishing.

Cuisine

Lower Silesia is also known for its delicious cuisine. The region is home to many traditional dishes, such as pierogi, bigos, and kiełbasa, which can be found in restaurants throughout the region. Visitors can also try local specialties, such as smoked meats and cheeses, as well as traditional beers and wines.

In conclusion, Lower Silesia is a region with a rich history and culture, and offers a wide range of tourist attractions. From charming cities and beautiful natural landscapes to castles and palaces, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or outdoor activities, Lower Silesia is the perfect destination for your next vacation.

FAQ

Q: What is Lower Silesia also known as?
A: It is also known as Dolnośląskie.

Q: What is the largest city in Lower Silesia?
A: The largest city in the region is Wrocław.

Q: What is the famous mountain range in Lower Silesia?
A: The famous mountain range in the region is the Karkonosze Mountains.

Q: What is the famous castle in Lower Silesia?
A: The famous castle in the region is the Książ Castle.

Q: What is the most popular town in Lower Silesia?
A: The most popular town in the region is the Jelenia Góra.

Q: What are the popular outdoor activities in Lower Silesia?
A: Popular outdoor activities in the region include hiking, skiing, and cycling.

Q: Are there any lakes and rivers in Lower Silesia?
A: Yes, there are many beautiful lakes and rivers in the region, such as Śnieżka, where visitors can enjoy water sports and fishing.

Q: Is Lower Silesia a good destination for history and culture enthusiasts?
A: Yes, Lower Silesia is known for its rich history and culture, and offers many historical landmarks, museums, and traditional villages to explore.

Wroclaw Tours & Attractions

Lodz (Lodzkie)

Lodz region

Łódź province – updated 19 January 2023.

The Lodz (Lodzkie) region in Poland is located in the central part of the country and is known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and economic development.

Lodz province

Lodz

The city of Lodz is the capital of the region and is known for its rich industrial heritage and cultural heritage. Lodz was once one of the most important textile centers in Europe, and many of the factories and mills from that era can still be seen today. The city also features several historic buildings, such as the Grand Theatre, which is a beautiful opera house, and the Poznanski Palace, which is a stunning example of Art Nouveau architecture.

Parks and gardens

The region is also home to several beautiful parks and gardens, such as the Botanical Garden of the Technical University of Lodz and the Piotrkowska Street Park, which is a beautiful park that runs along one of the main streets of the city. The region is also home to the Zdrowie Reservoir, which is a popular spot for swimming, boating, and fishing.

Museums

The Lodz region is also known for its rich cultural heritage. The city of Lodz is home to several museums, such as the Museum of Art, which features a collection of Polish and European art, and the Museum of the History of Lodz, which showcases the region's industrial heritage and the history of the city. The region is also known for its vibrant arts and music scene, and visitors can enjoy concerts, theater performances, and other cultural events throughout the year.

Industry and commerce

The region is also an important center of industry and commerce. The city of Lodz is home to several large manufacturing companies, including the Lodz Industrial Park, which is home to several leading companies in the automotive and electronics industries. The region is also home to several important research and development centers, such as the Institute of Textile Engineering and the Institute of Technical Sciences.

Unique blend

Despite its industrial development, the Lodz region remains a relatively undiscovered destination in Poland. Visitors to the area will find a unique blend of industrial heritage, rich culture, and beautiful landscapes that makes it a great destination for those looking to explore off the beaten path.

Lodz region

Tourist attractions

Some popular tourist attractions in the Lodz (Lodzkie) region of Poland include:

Piotrkowska Street: This is the main street in the city of Lodz, it is a pedestrian street and it is home to many cafes, restaurants, and shops. The street is also known for its Art Nouveau architecture, which is a must see for architecture enthusiasts

Museum of the History of Lodz: This museum showcases the industrial heritage and the history of the city of Lodz, it features a collection of artifacts and exhibits that provide an insight into the city's past.

Lodz Fabryczna: This is the main railway station of Lodz, it was built in 1866 and it is considered one of the most beautiful railway stations in Poland.

Manufaktura: This is a large shopping, entertainment and cultural complex, it was built on the site of an old textile factory, it features many shops, restaurants, cafes, a cinema and a theater.

Botanical Garden of the Technical University of Lodz: This garden is home to over 10,000 species of plants, it's a perfect place for nature lovers, and those who like to take a walk in a peaceful environment.

Zdrowie Reservoir: This reservoir is located on the outskirts of Lodz and it's a popular spot for swimming, boating, and fishing.

Lodz Film School: This film school is one of the most prestigious in Poland, it offers tours of its facilities and visitors can learn about the history of Polish cinema and the film-making process.

Piotrkowska Street Park: This park runs along one of the main streets of the city of Lodz, it's a beautiful park that offers a peaceful environment to enjoy a walk.

Grand Theatre: This is a beautiful opera house, it offers a wide range of performances throughout the year, from operas to ballets.

Poznanski Palace: This palace is a stunning example of Art Nouveau architecture and it's open to visitors, it's one of the most beautiful buildings in Lodz.

These are just a few of the many tourist attractions that can be found in the Lodz region of Poland. The region is home to a variety of museums, historic buildings, parks, lakes, and other points of interest that offer something for everyone.

FAQ

Q: What are the main towns and cities in the Lodz region of Poland?
A: The main towns and cities in the region include the city of Lodz, which is the capital of the region, and other smaller towns such as Pabianice, Zgierz, and Radomsko.

Q: What types of accommodation are available in the Lodz region?
A: The region offers a wide range of accommodation options, including hotels, guesthouses, hostels, and apartments. Visitors can find accommodations to fit any budget, from budget-friendly options to luxury accommodations.

Q: Are there any language barriers in the Lodz region?
A: The official language of the region is Polish, but many people in the region also speak English, especially in the tourist industry. Visitors may also find people who speak German and Russian.

Q: What is the cost of living in the Lodz region?
A: The cost of living in the region is relatively low compared to other parts of Europe. Visitors can find affordable accommodation and food, but prices can vary depending on location and the type of service or product.

Q: Are there any safety concerns in the Lodz region?
A: The region is generally considered safe for tourists. However, as with any destination, it's important to take the usual precautions and stay aware of your surroundings.

Q: Are there any religious or cultural events that take place in the Lodz region?
A: The region has a rich cultural heritage and many religious and cultural events take place throughout the year. Some of the most popular events include the Wieniawski Festival of Classical Music, the Lodz Film Festival, and the International Festival of Street Theatres.

Lodz Tours & Attractions

Greater Poland (Wielkopolskie)

Greater Poland

Greater Poland – updated 18 January 2023.

Greater Poland, also known as Wielkopolskie, is a region located in western Poland. It is the third most populous region in the country, with a population of over 3 million people. The capital and largest city of Greater Poland is Poznań, which is known for its rich history and culture.

Greater Poland

Middle Ages

Greater Poland has a long and rich history dating back to the Middle Ages. The region was initially settled by the Polans, a tribe of West Slavs, in the 10th century. In the 12th century, the region came under the rule of the Piast dynasty, which played a significant role in the development of the Polish state. In the 14th century, Poznań became the capital of the Wielkopolskie voivodeship, which was one of the most important regions in the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth.

17th and 18th centuries

During the 17th and 18th centuries, Greater Poland was a center of the Baroque culture in Poland. Many beautiful churches and palaces were built during this time, many of which still stand today and are popular tourist destinations. The region also played a significant role in the Polish Enlightenment, with many notable figures, such as Ignacy Krasicki and Stanislaw Konarski, hailing from Greater Poland.

19th century

In the 19th century, Greater Poland was a center of the Polish national movement, with Poznań being a major hub of political and cultural activity. The region also played a key role in the January Uprising of 1863-1864, which was an unsuccessful rebellion against Russian rule.

World War II

During World War II, Greater Poland was occupied by Nazi Germany. The region suffered heavily during the war, with many towns and villages being destroyed and large numbers of civilians being killed or sent to concentration camps. After the war, Greater Poland became part of communist Poland and underwent significant industrialization.

Cradle of Europe

Today, Greater Poland is a thriving region with a diverse economy. The region is known for its agriculture, with major crops including potatoes, sugar beets, and wheat and is known as the 'Cradle of Europe'. The region is also home to a number of industrial and manufacturing companies, including textile and machinery manufacturers. Poznań, in particular, is a major economic center in western Poland, with many large companies having their headquarters there.

Poznań Cathedral - Greater Poland

Popular tourist destination

Greater Poland is also a popular tourist destination, with many historical and cultural attractions to visit. Poznań is a particularly popular destination, with many medieval and Renaissance buildings, such as the Poznań Cathedral, the Old Town Hall, and the Town Hall Tower. Other popular tourist destinations in the region include the Imperial Castle in Poznań, the National Museum in Poznań, the Ostrow Tumski Cathedral, and the Wielkopolska National Park.

Rich cultural traditions

Additionally, Greater Poland is known for its rich cultural traditions. The region has a strong folk culture, with many traditional customs and festivals being celebrated throughout the year. One of the most famous festivals is the Poznań International Fair, which is held annually in Poznań and is one of the largest trade fairs in Europe.

In conclusion, Greater Poland (Wielkopolskie) is a region located in western Poland that is rich in history, culture, and tradition. The region has a diverse economy and is known for its agriculture and manufacturing industries. Greater Poland is also a popular tourist destination, with many historical and cultural attractions to visit. The region is also known for its rich cultural traditions and folk culture which is celebrated throughout the year.

See the top 10 things to do in Poznan.

FAQ

Q: What is Greater Poland (Wielkopolskie)?
A: Greater Poland, also known as Wielkopolskie, is a region located in western Poland that is known for its rich history and culture.

Q: What is the capital of Greater Poland?
A: The capital of the region is Poznań.

Q: What is the population of Greater Poland?
A: The population of the region is over 3 million people.

Q: What is the economy of Greater Poland like?
A: The region has a diverse economy with agriculture and manufacturing being the main industries. The region is known for its agriculture, with major crops including potatoes, sugar beets, and wheat. Additionally, there are also a number of industrial and manufacturing companies, including textile and machinery manufacturers.

Q: What are some popular tourist destinations in Greater Poland?
A: Some popular tourist destinations in the region include Poznań, the Imperial Castle in Poznań, the National Museum in Poznań, the Ostrow Tumski Cathedral, and the Wielkopolska National Park.

Q: What is the cultural scene like in Greater Poland?
A: The region has a strong folk culture, with many traditional customs and festivals celebrated throughout the year, such as the Poznań International Fair. The region also has a rich history and cultural attractions to visit.

Q: Are there any notable festivals or events in the region?
A: One of the most famous festivals in Greater Poland is the Poznań International Fair, which is held annually in Poznań and is one of the largest trade fairs in Europe.

Poznan Tours & Attractions

Masovia (Mazowieckie)

Masovia

Masovia – updated 21 January 2023.

Masovia (Mazowieckie) is located in mid-north-eastern Poland and has the city of Warsaw as its unofficial capital. It has an area of around 35,000 square kilometres and a population of just over 5 million. The region is known for its rich history, culture, and natural beauty.

Kampinos National Park - Masovia

Diverse landscape

Masovia has a rich history and culture. The region was an important center of the Piast dynasty in the Middle Ages, and it played a significant role in the formation of the Polish state. The region also has a diverse landscape, with forests, rivers, lakes, and marshlands.

Economy

The economy of Masovia is diverse and well-developed, with a strong industrial base, agriculture, and services sector. The region is also a major transportation hub, with Warsaw being an important railway and road junction.

Warsaw

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Masovia is the capital city of Warsaw. The city has been rebuilt after World War II and offers visitors a glimpse into Poland's past and present. One of the must-see sights in Warsaw is the Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Old Town is home to the Royal Castle, St. John's Cathedral, and the Market Square. Other popular attractions in Warsaw include the Warsaw Uprising Museum, the Palace of Culture and Science, and the Museum of the History of Polish Jews.

Płock

Another city in Masovia that is worth visiting is Płock. The city is located on the Vistula River and is known for its beautiful architecture, including the Gothic Cathedral of St. John the Apostle and the medieval castle. Płock is also home to the Museum of Mazovia, which houses a collection of art and artifacts from the region.

Ciechanów Castle - Masovia

Other towns

Other towns and cities in Masovia that are worth visiting include Ciechanów, Ostrołęka, and Radom. Ciechanów is known for its medieval castle and the Gothic church of St. Cross. Ostrołęka is known for its beautiful Old Town and the Gothic church of St. Nicholas. Radom is known for its beautiful Old Town, the Gothic church of St. Wenceslaus, and the Museum of Radom.

Outdoor activities

For those who love the great outdoors, Masovia offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, cycling, and other outdoor activities. The Kampinos National Park is a great place to go hiking and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the forest. The Vistula River is also a popular spot for canoeing and kayaking.

Warsaw Tours & Attractions

Warmia-Masuria (Warminsko-Mazurskie)

Warmia-Masuria

Warmia-Masuria – updated 21 January 2023.

Warmia-Masuria (Warminsko-Mazurskie) is the water sports capital of Poland, and it is dominated by the Great Masurian Lakes. Every year, thousands of kayakers, windsurfers and sailors arrive in the province to have fun on the water.

Land of a thousand lakes

One of the main attractions of Warmia-Masuria is its thousands of lakes, many of which are interconnected by a network of canals. This makes it a paradise for water sports enthusiasts, such as sailing, kayaking, and fishing. The region also has many beaches and marinas to enjoy during the summer months.

Warmia-Masuria

Elbląg–Ostróda

At 24,192 square kilometres, Warmia-Masuria is not the biggest region in Poland, but it sure has a lot to offer. Once you’ve explored the lakes, you can experience water of a different sort on one of the world’s most intriguing canals, the Elbląg–Ostróda; which runs 80.5 kilometres southward from Lake Drużno to the river Drwęca and lake Jeziorak. The canal uses a system of inclined planes between lakes to overcome a 100 m difference in water levels and is considered one of the most significant monuments related to the history of technology.

Krutynia

Warmia-Masuria also has countless rivers, swamps and wetlands to have fun in. The river Krutynia, which flows from Lake Warpuńskie into Lake Bełdany is a popular destination for kayakers and is considered to be one of the most picturesque waterways in Poland.

Olsztyn

The province's name derives from two historic regions, Warmia and Masuria and its capital and largest city is Olsztyn.

What to see

Warmia-Masuria is home to Hitler’s wartime hideout, the Wolf’s Lair, one of Europe’s most significant WWII sites. There’s also Palaces, Gothic castles, Gothic churches and museums to explore.

Wolf’s Lair

Lidzbark Castle

One of the most-visited attractions in Warmia-Masuria is the Lidzbark Castle, which was the residence of bishops for hundreds of years. It was here that Nicolaus Copernicus sketched the first draft of his theory on the movement of the Earth.

Wolf's Lair

The Wolf’s Lair in Gierłoż is well-worth a visit. Wolf’s Lair is the standard English name for Wolfsschanze, Adolf Hitler’s first World War II Eastern Front military headquarters, one of several Führerhauptquartier (Führer Headquarters) or FHQs located in various parts of Europe. Hitler first arrived at the Wolf’s Lair late on the night of 23 June 1941 and departed for the last time on 20 November 1944. Overall, he spent over 800 days there during that 3.5-year period.

The Germans blew up this enormous complex of 80 buildings and bunkers near the end of World War II, but some buildings remain. You can also see the remains of the conference barrack that was the scene of an unsuccessful attempt on Hitler’s life.

Pyramid in Rapa

Other places that are worth visiting include: the pyramid in Rapa, which is the family mausoleum of the von Fahrenheid family and is loosely inspired by the architecture of ancient Egypt. The family members buried there were mummified.

The English version official website for Warmia and Masuria is actually quite good and is worth looking through for further information about the region – https://mazury.travel/en/

Tours & Attractions

Pomerania (Pomorskie)

Pomerania

Pomerania – updated 21 January 2023.

Welcome to Pomerania, a picturesque region located in northern Poland known for its stunning coastal landscapes, rich history, and delicious cuisine. Pomerania is Poland’s most northern province. It covers an area of over 18,300 square kilometres and has the Baltic Sea on its northern border and Russia (via the Vistula Spit) to the north-east.

Coastline & Lakes

The region has 316 km of coastline with sandy beaches and a staggering 2,901 lakes. If you wanted to swim in a different lake every day, it would take you almost eight years!

Tricity

The epicentre and capital of Pomerania is Gdańsk, northern Poland’s metropolis, which together with Gdynia and Sopot forms a conurbation called Tricity – one of the main cultural, commercial and educational centres of Poland inhabited by over 1.2 million people.

Pomerania province

Gdańsk

Gdańsk is a charming port city with a rich history and cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the city's many museums, monuments, and historic buildings, including the Main Town Hall, St. Mary's Church, and the Upland Gate. Gdańsk is also a great place to sample traditional Polish cuisine and shop for unique local crafts and souvenirs.

Sopot

Sopot is a popular seaside resort town known for its long wooden pier, wide sandy beaches, and vibrant nightlife. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and water sports on the beach, or take a stroll along the famous Monciak promenade.

Health resorts & spas

The province is well-known in Poland for its beaches, health resorts & spas, which attract tourists by the thousands each year. It also has many interesting historical sites such as the UNESCO-listed Castle of the Teutonic Order in Malbork, a marvel in red brick and the largest castle in the world measured by land area.

National Parks

Pomerania also boasts two national parks, Slowinski National Park and Bory Tucholskie National Park, it also has nine landscape parks and 127 nature reserves. In total, one third of Pomerania is occupied by green areas, which attracts tourists from all over Europe who can enjoy a number of outdoor activities in the region such as cycling, hiking, angling, canoeing and birdwatching to name a few.

Pomerania province

Kashubia

Away from the beaches and miracles in red brick, you’ll discover Kashubia, a region that is steeped in tradition and even has its own language.

Since 2005 Kashubian enjoys legal protection in Poland as an official regional language. It is the only tongue in Poland with this status.

Overall, Pomerania is an ideal destination for those looking to experience the beauty and culture of Poland in a unique and diverse setting. We invite you to come and discover all that this amazing region has to offer.

Gdansk Tours & Attractions

Lazienki Palace

Lazienki Park

Lazienki Palace – updated 10 January 2023.

The Lazienki Palace, also known as the Palace on the Water, is a beautiful palace and park complex located in Warsaw, Poland. It is considered to be one of the most important cultural and historical sites in the city.

Lazienki Palace

Stanislaw August Poniatowski

The palace was built in the 18th century for Stanislaw August Poniatowski, the last king of Poland, as a summer residence. The palace is an example of the “Polish-Baroque” style of architecture, which combines elements of Baroque, Rococo, and Classic styles.

Interiors

The palace’s interiors are particularly impressive and boast a number of ornate rooms, including the Grand Hall, which features frescoes and stucco decoration, and the White Hall, which is known for its beautiful parquet floor. The palace also has a beautiful chapel, with a Rococo-style altar and frescoes.

The park

The palace is set in a beautiful park, which is also worth visiting. The park features a number of other buildings and monuments, including the Myślewicki Palace, the Belweder Palace, and the famous “Statue of the Little Insurgent.”

Old Orangery

During a walk around the 76 hectares park, you’ll see the Art Nouveau Chopin monument, a classicist amphitheatre, summer houses, pavilions, cafes & restaurants, lakes, the English garden, an Old Orangery, palaces and much more. There’s so much to see that it is possible to spend the full day in the park.

Artificial Island

The palace is built on an artificial island that divides the lake into two parts, a smaller northern lake and a bigger southern lake; it is connected by two colonnaded bridges to the rest of the park. The location of the palace has provided the building with its unofficial name, The Palace on the Lake.

The Lazienki Palace is a popular tourist destination, and is open to visitors year-round. Visitors can take guided tours of the palace to learn more about its history and see its many rooms and features.

Inside the palace, you’ll find sumptuous interiors, some 140 paintings and works of art from the king’s collection and an ornate ballroom.

The palace was very nearly destroyed by the retreating Germans during the final stages of WWII, they went as far as to drill holes in the structure in preparation for demolition; however, the plan was never carried out.

Lazienki Palace

Best times to visit

One of the best times to visit the palace and park is from spring to late autumn when the gardens are at their best. In addition to the flora and fauna, you’ll also see peacocks, squirrels, swans and ducks.

Chopin

Summer visitors should not miss out on one of the famous Chopin concerts, which take place from May to September every Sunday at 12 noon and 4pm at the Chopin monument.

Lazienki Palace Tours & Experiences

Bedzin Castle

Bedzin

Bedzin Castle – Updated 09 January 2023.

Bedzin Castle, also known as Będzin Castle, is a castle located in the town of Będzin, Silesia, Poland. It was built in the 13th century and served as a defensive structure for the Duchy of Silesia. The castle has undergone several renovations and reconstructions over the centuries, and today it serves as a museum and cultural center.

Originally the site was home to an early medieval wooden hill fort, which was then transformed into a stone castle.

Bedzin Castle

Buildings

The castle is situated on a hill overlooking the town of Będzin and the surrounding region. It is made up of a number of buildings, including the main tower, a chapel, and various residential and service buildings. The castle is surrounded by a moat and is accessed by a drawbridge.

King Casimir the Great

Early documentation attributes the building of the stone fortification to King Casimir the Great and the construction of the stone castle was an important factor in securing the Polish-Czech border and trade routes into Poland.

Zagłębie Museum

Bedzin Castle was partially destroyed during the Swedish invasions of 1655 and was rebuilt in 1855 with the castle’s last major restoration taking place in 1956. The castle is now home to the Zagłębie Museum.

The castle was ordered to be demolished in 1825 when a piece of the stone structure fell off and crushed a person; however, before demolition started, the castle was declared a monument and was saved.

Bedzin Castle

Exhibits & displays

Inside the castle, visitors can explore a number of exhibits and displays that tell the story of the castle’s history and the people who lived there. There are also various cultural events and performances held at the castle throughout the year.

The museum has several collections: one of armament, from medieval to World War II times; the second dedicated to the history of the Będzin Castle; the third to the castles of the other nearby castles founded by Casimir the Great (Eagle Nests Trail or Szlak Orlich Gniazd) and the final one, to the military history of the Będzin region.

Jewish community

The town of Bedzin has a dark history linked to WWII. It was once a vibrant Jewish community. According to the Polish census of 1921, the town’s Jewish population consisted of 17,298 people, or 62.1 percent of its total population however this was devastated in 1939 by the Nazi SS who destroyed the synagogue and sent 10,000 Jewish residents to Auschwitz to be exterminated.

On January 27, 1945, the town was captured by the Red Army. Subsequently, the castle was rebuilt.

Today, the renovated and partially rebuilt castle is one of the most impressive medieval structures in southern Poland.

If you’re interested in history and architecture, Bedzin Castle is definitely worth a visit. It’s a fascinating and beautiful example of medieval castle design, and the exhibits and events held there offer a unique glimpse into the past.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about Będzin Castle in Poland:

Where is Będzin Castle located?
Będzin Castle is located in the town of Będzin, which is in the Silesian Voivodeship (province) of southern Poland. It is situated about 30 km (19 miles) from the city of Katowice.

What is the history of Będzin Castle?
Będzin Castle was built in the 13th century as a wooden fortification. It was later rebuilt in brick and stone, and it served as a defensive structure and a residence for the local rulers. The castle was badly damaged during World War II, but it has since been partially restored.

Is Będzin Castle open to the public?
Yes, Będzin Castle is open to the public. It is currently used as a cultural and educational center, and it hosts a variety of events, including concerts, exhibitions, and conferences.

Is there a cost to visit Będzin Castle?
There is a fee for visitors to enter Będzin Castle. The cost of admission varies depending on the time of year and the specific events or exhibitions taking place.

Are there guided tours of Będzin Castle?
Yes, guided tours of Będzin Castle are available for visitors. The tours are typically offered in Polish, but English-language tours may also be available upon request.

Is Będzin Castle wheelchair accessible?
Będzin Castle is partially wheelchair accessible. Some areas of the castle are only accessible by stairs, but there are also some areas that can be accessed by elevator. It is recommended to contact the castle in advance to inquire about specific accessibility details.

Visit the official website for further information.

Royal Castle Warsaw

Warsaw Royal Castle

Royal Castle Warsaw – updated 10 January 2023.

The Royal Castle in Warsaw is a beautiful palace located in the heart of the city. It has a rich history and is considered to be one of the most important cultural and historical sites in Poland.

The castle was originally built in the 14th century as a residence for the Dukes of Mazovia. It was later expanded and renovated over the centuries, and became the residence of the Polish kings in the 16th century. The castle was the seat of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth’s government and the residence of the Polish monarchs for several centuries.

World War II

The castle was heavily damaged during World War II, and the palace was rebuilt in the 1970s and 1980s to its former glory using old plans, drawings, paintings and photographs. Today, the castle serves as a museum and cultural center.

Wooden stronghold

The very first version of the castle was actually a wooden stronghold dating back to the 14th century built for the dukes of Mazovia and since then it has been the residence of Polish kings in addition to being the home of the president and also the seat of parliament.

Royal Castle Warsaw

17th century

Back in the 17th century Royal Castle Warsaw was one of the most splendid royal palaces in Europe and today; it is filled with authentic furniture from that period and many original works of art.

Reconstruction

Reconstruction of the castle did not start until 1971 and took 13 years to complete at immense cost with the majority of the funds having been donated from exiled Poles. During the reconstruction, bricks and rubble from the original structure were used.

Interiors

The castle’s interiors are particularly impressive, with ornate rooms, including the Great Apartment, which features frescoes and stucco decoration, and the Royal Chapel, which is home to a beautiful Baroque altar and frescoes. The castle also has a number of art galleries and exhibition halls.

Guided tours

The Royal Castle is a popular tourist destination and is open to visitors year-round. Visitors can take guided tours of the castle to learn more about its history and see its many rooms and features. The Castle Square, where the Royal Castle is located, is also a vibrant part of Warsaw’s Old Town, and it’s a great place to start exploring the city.

The highlights of the tour are the Great Apartments, which includes the Great Assembly Hall and lavishly decorated Throne Room and the King’s Apartments.

Royal Castle Warsaw

Rembrandt

Within the King’s Apartments is the Canaletto Room where you will find 22 paintings by Bernardo Bellotto, an Italian urban landscape painter who was known in Poland as Canaletto. This room also houses the Lanckoroński Collection, which includes two portraits painted by Rembrandt.

The King’s Apartments are adorned with many paintings depicting famous Polish events which hang alongside maps depicting a golden time when Poland stretched from the Baltic Sea to the Black Sea.

Tadeusz Kościuszko

During the tour, you will also visit the chapel with an urn containing the heart of Tadeusz Kościuszko, a Polish hero.

Ghost story

As is the case with many castles in Poland, there is a ghost story. In this case we have a White Lady who appears from time to time in some of the castle halls. Legend states that her appearance is linked to imminent danger.

The French Baroque Royal Gardens are delightful and can be found at the rear of the castle near the river.

It’s also worth mentioning that the Royal Castle is one of the most important symbols of Poland and Warsaw and it played a significant role in the country’s history, both in its past and its modern history, it is definitely a must-see location when in Warsaw.

Warsaw Tours & Experiences

Lancut Castle

Lancut

Lancut Castle – updated 10 January 2023.

Lancut Castle is a beautiful and well-preserved castle located in the town of Lancut in southeastern Poland. The castle is considered to be one of the most important and well-preserved aristocratic residences in Poland, and is known for its beautiful interiors and elegant architecture.

Lancut Castle

Fairy tale castle

Łańcut is a town in south-eastern Poland situated in the Subcarpathian Voivodeship. Also located within this region is the fairy tale Krasiczyn Castle

Initially, the building was a 15th century fortified manor house. It was converted into its present form in 1641 by Prince Stanisław Lubomirski and over the years, the building has been remodelled with added neoclassical, rococo and neo-baroque elements.

Interiors

The castle’s interiors are particularly impressive and boast a number of ornate rooms, including the Grand Hall, which features frescoes and stucco decoration, and the Library, which is home to a valuable collection of books and manuscripts. The castle also has a beautiful chapel, with a Rococo-style altar and frescoes.

17th century Grand Hall

The highlights of the tour include the 17th century Grand Hall, the Great Vestibule, the Zodiac Room, the rococo Corner Room and the Renaissance style Eastern Corridor. Also worth exploring is the English style garden, which surrounds the palace complex.

Lancut Castle

17th century

Some of the rooms in Lancut Castle date back to the 17th century and some were created in the 18th century. Many interiors were arranged later on at the turn of the 19th and the 20th century. Today, some of these interiors are used to showcase works of art from the Lancut collections and from other museums in addition to superb collections of furniture, porcelain, silver, glass, fabrics, musical instruments and books.

Alfred Potocki

Lancut Castle was once owned by Alfred Potocki who was one of the richest men in pre-WWII Poland. During his tenancy, Alfred accumulated a very large collection of art works including paintings and horse-drawn carriages among many other items of worth. Shortly before the arrival of the Red Army in July 1944, he successfully moved the most valuable items within the castle to Liechtenstein to keep them from being destroyed or looted.

The Coach House

As part of the tour, you will also be shown the Coach House, which is located 300m south of the castle. Among other interesting exhibits, the Coach House contains a priceless collection of horse-drawn carriages once owned by Alfred Potocki; which were built by some of the most famous carriage makers in Europe.

World War II

During World War II, the castle was occupied by the Germans and was used as a hospital. After the war, the castle was nationalized and served as a state-run institution and later as a museum. Today the castle serves as a cultural and historical center, hosting various exhibitions and cultural events throughout the year, and it is open to visitors.

Lancut Castle is a national monument and is considered to be one of Poland’s most important historical sites, it is also considered one of the most luxurious castle of Poland. It is a popular tourist destination, and attracts many visitors each year who are interested in the history, architecture and interiors of the castle.

Visit the official Lancut Castle website