Category: Castles & Palaces

Category: Castles & Palaces

Krasiczyn Castle

Krasiczyn

Krasiczyn Castle – updated 10 January 2023.

Krasiczyn Castle is a beautiful Renaissance-style castle located in the village of Krasiczyn, in south-eastern Poland. The castle was built in the late 16th century, and it has been passed down through the generations over the centuries. It has had various renovations over time, that includes rebuilding and additions in the Baroque and Classicism styles.

Krasiczyn Castle is more of a palace come stately home than a castle and is beautifully photogenic, the kind of place where young girls dream of marrying their Prince Charming. Whitewashed walls, turrets and an arcaded courtyard all help to give Krasiczyn that Cinderella feeling.

Old & New

The castle is composed of two main buildings, connected by a stone bridge. The older building, known as the “Old Castle,” was built in the Renaissance style, and is characterized by its tall, pointed towers and impressive gate. The newer building, known as the “New Castle,” was built in the Baroque style and features ornate decoration, including frescoes and stucco work.

Interior

The castle’s interior is just as impressive as its exterior, with beautifully decorated rooms, each with their own unique style. Some of the most notable rooms include the Great Hall, which features frescoes depicting scenes from Greek and Roman mythology, and the Knight’s Hall, which features a fireplace made of black marble.

Krasiczyn Castle

God, the Pope, the King and Nobility

The towers of Krasiczyn Castle were interestingly named after God, the Pope, the King and Nobility, with the King Tower being the favourite of potential Princesses, this is the one with a conical roof and little turrets (where’s Rapunzel?).

Over the years, the castle has been owned by several noble Polish families and has been visited by many Polish kings. One of most precious elements of the complex is the chapel, located in the Divine Tower, which has been compared to the Sigismund’s Chapel in Krakow’s Wawel Cathedral.

Krasiczyn Castle is surrounded by a picturesque park with a pond, which today is a popular location for weddings and other special events.

Army barracks

Krasiczyn was used as an Army barracks during WWII, and it suffered from vandalism and looting but was renovated back to its former glory after the collapse of Communist system.

Krasiczyn Castle

Hotel

In 2000, Krasiczyn was added to the association of hotels and restaurants located in historic buildings. The rooms are located in different parts of the castle complex.

The hotel offers ensuite rooms with satellite TV & free Wi-Fi. Guests are provided with free private parking, a large garden with a designated BBQ area, a café and amenities such as bicycle rental. The Castle Restaurant serves Polish and International dishes.

FAQ

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

What is the history of Krasiczyn Castle?
The castle was built in the late 16th century and has had various renovations over time, including rebuilding and additions in the Baroque and Classicism styles. The castle was occupied by Russian army during WWII and suffered damage, after which it was repaired.

What are the hours of operation?
The opening hours can vary depending on the time of year, but generally the castle is open to visitors from 9:00am to 5:00pm. It’s recommended to check the official website before you visit.

Are guided tours available?
Yes, guided tours of the castle are available in Polish and English. Guided tours typically take between 45 minutes to 1 hour.

Is the castle wheelchair accessible?
The castle is not fully wheelchair accessible, as some parts of the castle may be difficult to access for those with limited mobility.

Can I take photos inside the castle?
Photography is allowed inside the castle, but flash photography is not permitted.

Are there restrooms available?
Yes, there are restrooms available for visitors at the castle.

How can I get to Krasiczyn Castle?
The castle is located in the village of Krasiczyn, in south-eastern Poland. The closest airports are Rzeszów-Jasionka Airport (RZE) and Lviv International Airport (LWO). Visitors can also reach the castle by train or bus. Car is another option which gives you the flexibility to explore the area.

Check hotel room availability

Krzyztopor Castle

Krzyztopor Castle, Ujazd

Krzyztopor Castle – updated 10 January 2023

The castle is located in the tiny village of Ujazd, 35km from the town of Sandomierz. The castle is in ruins today but still attracts many visitors who are free to explore the grounds, ascend the turrets and ponder its remarkable, yet bizarre history. It is considered to be one of the most impressive and well-preserved Renaissance castles in Europe.

Krzysztof Ossoliński

The castle was commissioned in the 17th century by Krzysztof Ossoliński, an eccentric magnate with a fantastical imagination and it took 13 years to build (1631 to 1644). The construction was supervised and designed by Lorenzo Muretto, an Italian architect who was one of the few people around during this time who could create Ossolinski’s dream. The castle is known for its unique and irregular hexagonal design, and its many towers, battlements and bastions. The architecture of the castle is a blend of Renaissance and Mannerist styles, with elements of Gothic design.

Krzyztopor Castle

A work of fantasy

Krzyztopor Castle was indeed a work of fantasy, with immense stone walls; which were 600 metres long. It was designed to embody a calendar. It had four towers to represent the four seasons, twelve large halls to symbolise the twelve months of the year, fifty two rooms for the fifty two weeks and three hundred and sixty six windows to represent the days of the year (one only to be used during a leap year).

When construction of the castle was complete, it was known as an unconquerable fortress due to its modern fortifications and location.

Supposedly, the ball room within the castle had an aquarium in place of the ceiling and some of the cellars were used as stables for the owner’s 370 white stallions.

Invaders

The castle was turned into the headquarters of Swedish invaders in 1655 who left the once magnificent structure destroyed and looted and was eventually abandoned in 1770 when the owners at the time were unable to maintain it and the structure fell into ruin.

Krzyztopor Castle

Interior

The castle’s interior is just as impressive as its exterior, with beautifully decorated rooms, each with their own unique style. Some of the most notable rooms include the Great Hall, which features frescoes depicting scenes from Greek and Roman mythology, and the Knight’s Hall, which features a fireplace made of black marble.

Underground tunnel

There are also rumours about the cellars being adorned with black marble and mirrors, underfloor heating and a 15 km underground tunnel covered in sugar.

Ossolinski was unfortunately unable to enjoy his version of Neverland because he died from a heart attack just one year after its completion leaving the estate to his son, a captain in the Polish Hussars, who now supposedly haunts the ruins of the castle at night wearing his armour.

Krzyztopor Castle

Beware of the ghosts

Today, the castle is rumoured to be haunted not only by the Polish Hussars captain and son of Krzysztof Ossoliński; but also, a White Lady and her little white dog who continue to appear on the castle walls together on certain nights.

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

Visit the official Krzyztopor Castle website.

Ksiaz Castle

Ksiaz Castle – 13th Century

Ksiaz Castle – updated 13 January 2023.

Ksiaz Castle (German: Schloss Fürstenstein) is a large, impressive castle located in the town of Walbrzych in southwestern Poland. It is considered to be one of the most important and well-preserved castles in Poland.

Hochberg family

The incredibly beautiful and photogenic Ksiaz Castle was originally built in the 13th century as a small fortress, but it was expanded and rebuilt several times over the centuries. The current neo-Gothic style of the castle dates back to the 19th century, when it was rebuilt by the Hochberg family, who were one of the most powerful and wealthy families in the region. The castle was rebuilt in the neo-Gothic style with the intention of creating a residence that would reflect the family’s prestige and power.

Ksiaz Castle

Interior

The castle’s interior is just as impressive as its exterior, with beautifully decorated rooms, each with their own unique style. Some of the most notable rooms include the Great Hall, which features frescoes depicting scenes from Greek and Roman mythology, and the Knight’s Hall, which features a fireplace made of black marble.

Lost Nazi gold train

Over the years the castle has been the home to many noble families including the Silesian Duke Bolko 1 (who built it) and the mighty House of Hochberg. The castle is situated in thick woodlands adding to its majesty and is at the heart of a rumour of a lost Nazi gold train believed to be buried in the vicinity of the castle. After the war, the castle was nationalized and passed through different hands and purposes, until it was bought by the local government and opened to the public as a museum and cultural center.

Project Riese

During World War II, the Castle was taken over by the occupying German forces and following Hitler’s direct orders, a system of tunnels was constructed underneath the castle and surrounding areas. The construction was one of seven underground structures all developed under the code name Project Riese.

The function of the tunnels underneath Ksiaz Castle remains unclear mainly due to a lack of documentation; however, it is likely that they were going to be part of the Führer’s Headquarters network.

Ksiaz Castle

Disease and malnutrition

The construction of the tunnels within Project Riese was carried out by forced labourers, POWs and prisoners of concentration camps with many losing their lives due to disease and malnutrition.

In 2018, a 1.5km section of the tunnels was opened to the public as a tourist attraction and a 45-minute tour is available.

Renovation

In true form, the Nazi occupiers deliberately destroyed many of the historic chambers within the castle and after the war, the Castle was used as a barracks by the Red Army for a while before becoming largely abandoned. Thankfully, renovation work was undertaken in 1952 to restore the castle back to its former grandeur.

Romanesque, baroque and neo-Renaissance

Since the 13th century, Ksiaz Castle has been remodelled numerous times and today you can see a variety of styles within its architecture including Romanesque, baroque and neo-Renaissance.

Tours of Ksiaz Castle

Ksiaz Castle is open to the public and visitors can take guided tours of the castle’s interior, which includes a variety of exhibitions and displays about the castle’s history, architecture, and the Hochberg family. The castle also has a number of beautiful gardens and parkland that are open to visitors. The castle also serves as a venue for conferences and cultural events.

Maximilian Hall

Visitors today can explore and admire numerous chambers, terraces and the surrounding gardens. The showpiece of the tour is Maximilian Hall with its painted ceiling depicting mythological scenes.

Karkonosze Mountains

The castle is surrounded by a park and a lake, which are also open to the public, and are a popular spot for hiking and picnicking. The castle is located in the Karkonosze Mountains, which is a popular tourist destination for outdoor activities such as hiking and skiing.

National monument

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

Getting there

The castle is located in the town of Walbrzych in southwestern Poland. The closest airports are Wrocław Copernicus Airport (WRO) and Katowice International Airport (KTW). Visitors can also reach the castle by train or bus. Car is another option which gives you the flexibility to explore the area.

See information about other underground attractions in Poland.

Ksiaz Castle Tours & Experiences

Malbork Castle

Largest castle in the world

Malbork Castle – updated 10 January 2023.

Malbork Castle in the north of Poland is the largest castle in the world measured by land area and was designated a World Heritage Site in December 1997 by UNESCO. Located on the east bank of the River Nogat, this Gothic brick-built fortress once belonged to the Teutonic Order and it served as their headquarters for almost 150 years.

Originally a fortress named Marienburg, the Teutonic Knights began this incredible construction in the 13th century and the structure took shape in various stages. Initially, the construction consisted of a formidable central bastion called the High Castle. The Middle Castle and Lower Castle followed and finally, the complex was encircled by three rings of defensive walls strengthened with towers and dungeons.

Malbork Castle

The Teutonic Knights

The Teutonic Knights were a German Catholic religious order of crusaders with considerable military power; however, Malbork was seized by the Polish Army in 1457 during the Thirteen Years’ War at a time when the strength and influence of the Order had started to diminish.

Malbork Castle

Damage

Over the years, the castle has been home to many different occupiers including the Prussians who turned the castle into a barracks and in the process, dismantled parts of the complex with no military significance and also caused major damage to the interior decoration. The castle sustained further damage during WWII.

Castles in Poland

Restoration and conservation

Despite all of this and thanks largely to intervention and restoration, the castle today looks like it did 600 years ago and almost the entire complex has been preserved. Restoration and conservation work was carried out in the 19th and early 20th centuries and also at the end of WWII with many forgotten medieval art and craft techniques being rediscovered.

Polish castles

Audio guide

Visitors to the castle can take advantage of an audio guide that utilises GPS with a set route, which if followed ensures that everything that is worth seeing is seen. There are also amenities at the ticket office such as toilets, refreshments and lockers.

Malbork

During your visit, you’ll see the Middle Castle courtyard, the Grand Masters’ Palace with its 450 m2 Great Refectory, the Amber Museum, St Anne’s Chapel (where 12 Grand Masters were buried), High Castle, the Gdaniska (the Knights’ loo), St Mary’s Church and a multitude of other delights such as drawbridges & Gothic doorways.

If you are planning to visit Malbork, the castle is definitely worth a visit, it’s one of the most popular tourist attraction in Poland and it is a perfect destination for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts and for everyone who enjoy the Medieval era.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about the castle:

Q: What is the history of the castle?

A: The castle was built by the Teutonic Knights, a German medieval Christian military order, in the 14th century. It was originally called the Marienburg Castle and it served as the headquarters of the Teutonic Order and as a residence for the Grand Masters of the order. The castle also played an important role in Polish-Teutonic Wars. The castle was captured and reconstructed many times through the centuries. It was rebuilt by Polish kings and was later used as a prison, an arsenal, and a museum.

Q: How big is Malbork Castle?

A: The castle is one of the largest castles in the world, covering an area of 143,591 square meters. It has three main sections – the High Castle, Middle Castle, and Lower Castle. It also features an impressive collection of Gothic architecture and defensive walls.

Q: Is the castle a UNESCO World Heritage Site?

A: Yes, the castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, added to the list in 1997.

Q: What can be seen at the castle?

A: Visitors to the castle can see the impressive medieval architecture and defensive walls of the castle, as well as learn about its history through displays and exhibits. The castle also includes a museum of the Teutonic Knights and art from the Middle Ages. There are also guided tours offered to visitors which includes access to certain areas of the castle that are not open to the general public.

Q: How to get to Malbork Castle?

A: The castle is located in the city of Malbork, Poland. It can be reached by car, train or by bus. The nearest train station is in Malbork, and the castle is a short walk from the station.

Q: What is the best time to visit the castle?

A: The best time to visit the castle would depend on your personal preferences. The castle is open year-round and it may be quite crowded during the peak summer season. If you prefer to avoid the crowds and have a more leisurely visit, it might be best to visit during the shoulder or off-peak season. The castle also has a number of events held in the area throughout the year like Medieval Festival, Knight Tournament and similar, so if you are interested in that, plan your visit accordingly.

Tours & Experiences

Wawel Royal Castle

Historical & Cultural Sites – Wawel Royal Castle and Wawel Hill

Updated 11 January 2023.

Wawel Royal Castle is a historic castle located in Krakow, Poland. It is situated on Wawel Hill and overlooks the city. The castle has a long and complex history, with the original fortifications dating back to the late 9th century. The current architectural style of the castle is primarily Gothic and Renaissance, with some Baroque and Renaissance elements. The castle has been expanded and remodelled over the centuries, and it has served as a royal residence for Polish kings throughout history.

The Royal Castle and the limestone Wawel Hill are extremely important historical and cultural sites containing one of the most important collection of buildings in Poland.

Wawel Royal Castle

Residence of Kings

Wawel was once the seat of Polish rulers, the residence of kings and the focal point of many Polish historical events. The hill is a symbol of the Polish nation and has witnessed some of the greatest moments in Polish history.

Wawel Royal Castle

Castle complex

The castle complex includes several buildings, such as the Royal Castle, the Cathedral, the Wawel Dragon’s Den, and the Royal Residence. The Royal Castle contains several museums and art collections, including the Crown Treasury and Armoury, the State Rooms, and the Royal Private Apartment. The Cathedral is the coronation site of Polish kings and the burial place of many Polish monarchs, national heroes, and poets.

Located south of the old town and next to the Vistula River, Wawel Hill showcases an incredible assortment of architectural delights including Renaissance, Gothic and Romanesque designs. The Royal Castle and the Cathedral are must-see attractions and a walk around the castle courtyards and open spaces are highly recommended.

Art Museum

Today, the Royal Castle is home to a superb art museum, which is well-known throughout Europe and the World because of its collection of Italian Renaissance paintings, the Sigismund II Augustus tapestry collection, sculptures, ceramics, period furniture and textiles among others.

Wawel Royal Castle

Sections

The museum consists of five individual and separate sections: Crown Treasury and Armoury, State Rooms, Royal Private Apartments, Lost Wawel and the Exhibition of Oriental Art.

Wawel Hill has a long history, which can be traced back to the year 1000 when the first cathedral on Wawel Hill was built. Since then, Wawel has experienced many different timelines ranging from its Golden era from the 14th to the 16th centuries to the start of its decline as a centre of importance in 1609; when the then King moved his court to Warsaw.

The Royal Castle was the cultural and political heart of Poland during the 16th century and today, it stands as a potent symbol and reminder of the Polish national identity. Visitors to Wawel Royal Castle today will see a 16th century Renaissance palace; however, before this, it was a formidable Gothic castle; which was burned down in 1499

Restoration

Over the years, the castle has been repeatedly sacked and vandalised. Extensive restoration work has been carried out since and many of the castle’s external structures and interior decorations have been recovered.

The castle and its grounds are open to the public and are a popular tourist destination in Krakow, and a lot of visitors come to see the impressive architecture of the buildings and to learn about the castle’s rich history.

Wawel Royal Castle Tours & Experiences