Category: World Heritage Sites

Category: World Heritage Sites

Wieliczka Salt Mine

Wieliczka Salt Mine

Updated 09 January 2023.

The Wieliczka salt mine is a UNESCO World Heritage site located around 14km southeast of Kraków and is one of Poland’s most popular attractions, welcoming tourists since 1722.

Wieliczka

Going underground

Wieliczka is a subterranean labyrinth of tunnels, shafts and chambers, underground saline lakes, chapels with altarpieces, majestic timber constructions and unique statues sculpted in rock salt. The size of the mine is staggering, it reaches a depth of 327m and extends via horizontal passages and chambers for over 287 km distributed over nine levels. Only a small part of the mine is open to the public.

Wieliczka Salt Mine Sculptures

The oldest sculptures were carved out of rock salt by miners; more recent figures have been fashioned by contemporary artists. Even the crystals of the chandeliers are made from rock salt that has been dissolved and reconstituted to achieve a clear, glass-like appearance. The rock salt is naturally grey in various shades, so that the carvings resemble unpolished granite rather than the white or crystalline look that many visitors expect. The carvings may appear white in the photos, but the actual carved figures are not white.

Chapel of St Kinga

The highlight of the mine is a vast chamber housing the ornamented Chapel of St Kinga. Everything that you will see within the chamber is made from salt including altarpieces and chandeliers. It took over 30 years for three sculptors to complete this underground temple, and about 20,000 tonnes of rock salt had to be removed. The rock salt in the mine resembles unpolished granite and its natural colour is grey, not white as many people might expect.

Salt Mine

The older sculptures have been supplemented with new carvings made by contemporary artists.

Working mine

Historically, Wieliczka was a working mine; however due to falling salt prices and flooding, commercial salt mining was discontinued. The mine has produced salt since the 13th century and was one of the world’s oldest operating salt mines.

UNESCO World Heritage Site

Salt Lake

Other highlights are the Salt Lake in the Erazm Barącz Chamber, whose water is denser than the Dead Sea, and the awe-inspiring 36m-high Stanisław Staszic Chamber.

If you’re worried about the air quality down there, great news: the mine’s special microclimate actually has a beneficial effect on asthma sufferers and those with allergies!

UNESCO World Heritage Site

378 steps

To get down to the 64-metre level of the mine, visitors must descend a wooden stairway of 378 steps. After the 3km tour of the mine’s corridors, chapels, statues and lake, 135 metres underground, visitors take an elevator back up to the surface. The elevator holds 36 persons (nine per car) and takes some 30 seconds to reach the surface.

Getting there

Getting to the Wieliczka Salt Mines from Krakow shouldn’t prove too difficult or expensive. Regular buses run from the top of Starowislna Street opposite the Main Post Office, taking around forty minutes to get there. Be warned that buses are a little cramped and we advise you check departure details at one of Krakow’s tourist information offices as these routes chop and change quite a bit. You’re best asking a friendly Pole where to get off too, as this is a public bus not a tourist service.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Wieliczka Salt Mine in Poland:

Where is the Salt Mine located?
The Salt Mine is located in the town of Wieliczka, which is about 15 km (9 miles) southwest of Krakow, Poland.

What is the history of the Salt Mine?
The Wieliczka Salt Mine has a long history dating back to the 13th century. It was one of the first salt mines in Europe to be converted into a tourist attraction, and it has been a popular tourist destination since the 19th century. The mine is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has been recognized as one of the most valuable cultural and natural assets in Poland.

Is the Salt Mine open to the public?
Yes, the mine is open to the public. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Poland, and it attracts over 1 million visitors each year.

Is there a cost to visit the Wieliczka Salt Mine?
Yes, there is a fee for visitors to enter the Salt Mine. The cost of admission varies depending on the type of tour you choose and the time of year you visit.

Are there guided tours of the Wieliczka Salt Mine?
Yes, guided tours of the Salt Mine are available for visitors. The tours are offered in a variety of languages, including English, and they take visitors through the underground tunnels and chambers of the mine.

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

Wieliczka Salt Mine Tours & Experiences

Lesser Poland (Malopolskie)

Lesser Poland

Lesser Poland – updated 19 January 2023.

The Lesser Poland (Malopolskie) region in Poland is located in the south of the country and is known for its beautiful landscapes, rich history, and cultural heritage. The region is bordered by the Silesian Voivodeship to the west, the Lesser Poland Voivodeship to the north, and the Slovakian border to the south.

Tatra National Park - Lesser Poland

Tatra mountains

One of the main attractions of the Lesser Poland region is the beautiful Tatra Mountains, which are a popular destination for hikers, skiers, and outdoor enthusiasts. The Tatras are the highest mountain range in Poland and are home to several national parks, including the Tatra National Park, which is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The Tatras are also home to several historic sites, such as the Zakopane, which is a mountain resort town and the cultural capital of the region.

Lakes

The region is also home to several beautiful lakes, such as the Rożnowski and the Czorsztyński, which are popular for swimming, boating, and fishing. The region is also home to the Wieliczka Salt Mine, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Pieniny National Park, which is a beautiful area of rolling hills, meadows, and forests that is perfect for hiking and cycling.

Lesser Poland

Krakow

The Lesser Poland region is also known for its rich history and cultural heritage. The city of Krakow, which is the capital of the region, is home to several historic buildings and monuments, including the Wawel Castle, the St. Mary's Basilica, and the Main Market Square, which is one of the largest medieval town squares in Europe. Krakow is also home to several museums, such as the National Museum and the Wawel Royal Castle, which showcase the region's history and culture.

Traditional crafts

The region is also known for its traditional crafts, such as pottery, weaving, and woodcarving. Visitors to the area can find a wide variety of handmade goods at local markets and shops. The region is also known for its delicious cuisine, which features traditional dishes such as pierogi (dumplings) and bigos (stew).

Industry and commerce

In addition to its natural beauty and cultural heritage, the Lesser Poland region is also an important center of industry and commerce. The region is home to several large manufacturing companies, including the Krakow Industrial Park, which is home to several leading companies in the automotive and electronics industries.

Wieliczka - Lesser Poland

Unique blend

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

In conclusion, the Lesser Poland region of Poland is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural heritage. The Tatra Mountains, the Wieliczka Salt Mine, and the Pieniny National Park are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, while the traditional crafts and delicious cuisine of the region, and the historic buildings and monuments of Krakow are perfect for those looking to experience the local culture. The region's industrial development also makes it an important center of commerce in Poland. It's a destination that should not be missed for those who are interested in exploring Poland.

FAQ

Q: What is the Lesser Poland region of Poland known for?

A: The region is known for its beautiful landscapes, rich history, and cultural heritage. The Tatra Mountains, the Wieliczka Salt Mine, and the Pieniny National Park are popular destinations for outdoor enthusiasts, while the traditional crafts, delicious cuisine, and historic buildings and monuments of Krakow are popular among those interested in experiencing the local culture. The region is also an important center of industry and commerce in Poland.

Q: What are some popular things to do in the Lesser Poland region?

A: Popular activities in the region include hiking and skiing in the Tatra Mountains, visiting the Wieliczka Salt Mine, exploring historic buildings and monuments in Krakow, experiencing traditional crafts, and trying local cuisine.

Q: What are some popular traditional crafts in the Lesser Poland region?

A: Traditional crafts in the region include pottery, weaving, and woodcarving. Visitors to the area can find a wide variety of handmade goods at local markets and shops.

Q: What are some popular dishes in the Lesser Poland region?

A: Popular dishes in the region include pierogi (dumplings) and bigos (stew). The region is also known for its delicious cuisine, which features traditional dishes such as kiełbasa and kaszanka.

Q: How can I get to the Lesser Poland region?

A: The region is located in south of Poland. The main city of the region is Krakow, which can be reached by train or bus from other major cities in Poland. The region is also easily accessible by car and has good road connections.

Q: Are there any national parks in the Lesser Poland region?

A: Yes, the region is home to several national parks, including the Tatra National Park and the Pieniny National Park. Both parks offer beautiful landscapes, hiking trails, and opportunities for outdoor activities, as well as several historic sites.

Krakow Tours & Attractions

Subcarpathia (Podkarpackie)

Subcarpathia

Subcarpathia – updated 21 January 2023.

Subcarpathia (Podkarpackie) is located in the south-eastern corner of Poland and has the city of Rzeszów as its administrative capital. The region is one of the greenest provinces in Poland with nearly 36% of the area being protected. The region is home to the breath-taking Bieszczady Mountains, which offer endless opportunities for hiking, skiing, and exploring the great outdoors. The San River also runs through the region, providing opportunities for rafting and fishing.

National & Landscape Parks

Within Subcarpathia, there are two National Parks (all of Bieszczady National Park, and parts of Magura National Park) and eleven Landscape Parks.

Bieszczady National Park

Tourist trails

Whilst exploring the region, you’ll find hundreds of kilometres of tourist trails. The area is extremely popular with hikers who come to the province to enjoy the scenery and fauna, which includes lynxes, wildcats, wisents and golden eagles to name a few.

Cycling

There are over 1,750 kilometres of cycling routes with varied levels of difficulty in Subcarpathia. Experienced cyclists are attracted by the routes in the Bieszczady, Low Beskid and Slonne Mountains. The Green Velo Eastern Cycling Trail is popular with beginners and families with children.

Cycling in Poland

Tourist attractions

There are many tourist attractions in the province including historic and heritage sites. The Wooden Architecture Route comprises 9 trails and has a total length of 1202 km. It leads to 127 landmarks of wooden architecture, such as churches, tserkvas, open-air expositions, complexes of small-town buildings, manor houses and palaces. Of particular notice are the jewels of wooden architecture recognized by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites.

Castles & Palaces

Lovers of castles and palaces will not be disappointed, the region has many including Lancut Castle and the fairy tale Krasiczyn Castle.

Krasiczyn Castle

Krasiczyn Castle

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.

The City of Glass

No trip to Subcarpathia is complete without a visit to Krosno, known as, “The City of Glass”. Check out the Glass Heritage Centre. In the past each and every Polish household had some glassware from Krosna in their home.

Silesia (Slaskie)

Silesia

Silesia – updated 21 January 2023.

Silesia Voivodeship is located in southern Poland and has the city of Katowice as its capital. The province is one of the most important industrial regions of Poland with a proud history of mining.

Silesia province

Industry & mining

Silesia is known for its industrial heritage and thriving coal mining industry. Visitors can explore the region's rich history by visiting the Upper Silesian Ethnographic Park, a living museum showcasing the traditional culture and customs of the region. Another must-see attraction is the Black Trout Adit, an underground mine open for tours.

Landscape Parks

There’s much more to the Silesia Voivodeship than industry, the region also has 8 Landscape Parks including: the Eagle Nests Landscape Park, the Little Beskids Landscape Park and the Silesian Beskids Landscape Park. You’ll also find nature preserves and mountain ranges within the region.

Trail of the Eagles Nests

Taking the Trail of the Eagles Nests is a great way to explore many historical sites including a chain of 25 medieval castles between Częstochowa and Kraków. The trail has been named the “Eagle's Nests”, as most of the castles are located on large, tall rocks of the Polish Jura Chain featuring many limestone cliffs, monadnocks and valleys below.

Tourist attractions

Favourite tourist destinations include the castle in Pszczyna or the Hochbergs hunting lodge in Promnice and mining facilities such as the “Guido” Coal Mine, the Queen Louise Adit and UNESCO listed Tarnowskie Góry Silver Mine which have been turned into fascinating and educational underground tourist attractions.

Guido Coal Mine

Winter sports

The town of Bielsko-Biała is surrounded by the Beskidy Mountains and this part of the region is very popular with winter sports enthusiasts. There are around 200 km of ski routes to enjoy serviced by over 150 ski lifts. Many of the ski slopes are equipped with artificial snow generators and are illuminated at night. The most visited winter resorts are Szczyrk, Brenna, Wisła and Ustroń.

Jasna Góra

Each year, millions of pilgrims from all over Poland flock to Jasna Góra in Częstochowa, mainly to see the blessed icon of the Black Madonna. Pilgrims travel on foot for several days often covering hundreds of kilometres.

Towns & villages

The region is also home to a number of picturesque towns and villages, including the charming town of Cieszyn, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and the beautiful Teschen Palace. The palace is a former residence of the Habsburgs, which is now a museum open to visitors.

Culture

In terms of culture, Silesia is famous for its rich tradition of folk music, dance, and costumes. Visitors can experience this firsthand by attending one of the region's many folk festivals, such as the Festival of Folk Bands in Pszczyna or the Festival of Silesian Folklore in Racibórz.

Silesia is a diverse and fascinating region that offers something for everyone. From history and culture to outdoor activities and delicious food, there's no shortage of things to see and do. Start planning your trip to Silesia today and discover all that this amazing region has to offer.

Tours & Attractions

Podlasie (Podlaskie)

Podlasie

Podlasie – updated 21 January 2023.

Podlasie (Podlaskie) is primarily rural and remote with the exception of a few urban centres and is located on the east side of Poland bordering Lithuania and Belarus. The voivodeship constitutes a part of the ecologically clean area known as “the Green Lungs of Poland” and is a lush expanse of forest, farmland and lakes boasting four national parks, three Landscape Parks, 88 nature reserves and 15 protected landscape areas.

Bialowieza National Park

The most famous of the national parks is Bialowieza, which is well-known for two reasons. Firstly, it is home to Europe’s largest land mammal, the European bison and secondly, the park shelters a sizeable chunk of original lowland primeval forest, which has remained undisturbed for hundreds of years. The forest has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Biosphere Reserve.

Around & About in Białystok - Podlasie

The other three national parks are Narew and Biebrza, known for their marshlands and Wigry; which is known for its lakes.

Forests

The province has a number of forests, some of which are the only ones in Europe to have retained their original character. The forests of Białowieża, Augustów, Knyszyń and Kurpiowska have an extremely diverse selection of flora and fauna. Visitors may see bison, wolves, lynx and moose.

Białystok

Another must-see destination in Podlasie is the city of Białystok, the region's capital and largest city. Here, you can discover the city's rich history and culture through its many museums, monuments, and historic buildings, including the Branicki Palace, the Cathedral of St. Roch, and the Białystok Synagogue. Białystok is also a great place to sample traditional Polish cuisine and shop for unique local crafts and souvenirs.

Bialystok Tourist Information - Podlasie

Supraśl

For those seeking a more rustic experience, Podlasie offers a wide range of traditional villages, where you can experience the local way of life and learn about the region's customs and traditions. The village of Supraśl, for example, is known for its historic Orthodox monastery and its traditional pottery and folk art.

Legal protection

Of the sixteen Polish voivodeships, Podlasie has the lowest population density, and its largely unspoiled nature is its biggest attraction. Around 30% of the area of the voivodeship is under legal protection. Podlasie is the most diverse of all Polish voivodships and has been inhabited for hundreds of years by members of different religions and nations.

Milk

Nature also plays a big part in the region’s economy. The province is the largest milk producer in Poland, and it also has a thriving wood and furniture industry.

Podlaskie Museum of Folk Culture

The Podlaskie Museum of Folk Culture is not far from Białystok and features a great collection of the local folk art and typical examples of peasant houses and farm buildings characteristic of the region. The museum is located at the northern borders of Białystok, in the settlement of Wasilków, on the road to Augustów.

Outdoor activities

Podlasie is also a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with its many forests, lakes, and rivers offering opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, and canoeing. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day trip or a multi-day adventure, there are plenty of options for all skill levels.

Bialystok Tours & Attractions

Bialowieza National Park

Bialowieza Forest

Bialowieza National Park – updated 10 January 2023.

Białowieża National Park is a national park located in north-eastern Poland in the Podlaskie voivodeship and the westernmost part of Belarus. It is named after the Białowieża Forest, which it protects. The forest is one of the last and largest remaining parts of the immense primeval forest that once stretched across the European Plain.

Bialowieza National Park

Wildlife

The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including European bison, elk, deer, wild boar, wolves, lynx, and beavers. The forest is also home to many species of birds, including the black stork and the white-backed woodpecker.

UNESCO Heritage Site

Bialowieza National Park is well-known for two reasons. Firstly, it is home to Europe’s largest land mammal, the European bison and secondly, the park shelters a sizeable chunk of original lowland primeval forest, which has remained undisturbed for hundreds of years. 

Bison

The park was established in 1932 and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. It is also a Biosphere Reserve and a Ramsar site, recognized for the importance of its wetlands.

Last untouched wilderness of Europe

The park is called the “last untouched wilderness of Europe” and has an inner zone consisting of old-growth forest which has been living without much human intervention for over 800 years.

Bialowieza National Park

Białowieża Forest

Białowieża Forest is the last remnant of the primeval forest which once covered most of Europe and several species of fauna, which were once native in forests throughout Europe, but which have now been mostly eradicated can still be found there.

The inner zone of the Białowieża National Park is completely preserved and protected by a fence, with tourists only allowed inside with guides.

Bialowieza National Park

Corruption

Inside, the forest lives, breathes and decays as it has for thousands of years. Outside of the inner sanctuary several more km of forest is semi-preserved although sadly there are many reports of thinning and cutting of trees, supposedly due to disease, but more likely due to corruption and the market demand for large trees.

Nature and Forest Museum

The town of Białowieża is on the edge of the forest and is located in the Polish part of the reserve. Here you will find the Nature and Forest Museum.

This museum features exhibitions relating to the park's flora and fauna, the park’s history, and the archaeology and ethnography of the region. The viewing tower provides terrific views, and just north of the museum you will find a grove of 250-year-old oaks.

Bison

The number of bison in the world is estimated at 5,000, half of which live in Central Europe. In Poland, three quarters of the local population of these great mammals live in the wild. You can come across them not only in Bialowieza Forest, but also in the Bieszczady Mountains, in Masuria and in West Pomerania.

Białowieża National Park is open year-round, but some trails and facilities may be closed in the winter. Visitors can hike on the park's many trails, go on guided tours, and even stay overnight in the park's cabins.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about visiting Białowieża National Park:

Where is Białowieża National Park located?
Białowieża National Park is located in north-eastern Poland, near the border with Belarus. The nearest cities are Białystok and Hajnówka.

Is it possible to visit Białowieża National Park?
Yes, it is possible to visit the park, and visitors are welcome to explore its forests, meadows, and wetlands on foot, by bicycle, or by horse-drawn carriage. Some parts of the park are closed to visitors to protect the bison population and the natural environment, but these areas are clearly marked and can be easily avoided.

How much does it cost to visit Białowieża National Park?
Entrance to the park is free, but there is a fee for some activities such as guided tours, renting of bicycles and horses, etc.

Are there any restrictions on visiting the park?
Visitors should be aware that the park is home to many wild animals, so it is important to follow the rules and regulations regarding wildlife observation. Some areas of the park may be closed to visitors to protect the bison population and the natural environment, but these areas are clearly marked and can be easily avoided.

What should I expect when I visit the park?
Visitors to Białowieża National Park can expect to see a wide variety of wildlife and natural landscapes, including large populations of European bison, as well as wolves, lynx, deer, and other species. The park also has several educational and interpretive centers, which offer information about the park's history, culture, and wildlife.

Is it possible to see the bisons there?
Yes, the park is known for its large population of European bison, also known as wisent, which is the heaviest land animal in Europe and a symbol of the park. Visitors have a good chance of seeing bisons in the park, although sightings are never guaranteed.

Is there a dress code for visiting Białowieża National Park?
There is no formal dress code for visiting the park, but visitors should dress appropriately for the weather and the activities they plan to do. Wear comfortable shoes and clothing for walking, as well as for protection against ticks, which can be a problem in the park.

Bialowieza National Park

What to expect from this tour

Bialowieza National Park is a real phenomenon at a European level. The oldest national park in Poland and one of the oldest in Europe has an extremely diverse variety of flora and fauna. You will find here a whole bunch of plants and animals that occur nowhere else. According to the specialists, Bialowieza Forest is home to 25,000 species of animals and more than 1,000 species of plants.

Bison

Highlights

  • Discover one of the last and largest remaining parts of the immense primeval forest which once stretched across the European Plain
  • Admire European bison and many other forest animals in their wild, natural environment
  • Take a long walk with your local guide through the reserve of unique, old trees
  • Relax in the greenery and enjoy the fresh air of wild forests

Description

The Białowieża Forest is a symbol of Poland’s natural wealth and diversity. International experts have recognized its unique value, and the Białowieża National Park has been included on UNESCO’s World Heritage List as well as on UNESCO’s List of World Biosphere Reserves.

After morning pickup from your accommodation in Warsaw, you will be transferred by air-conditioned car/minivan with an English-speaking driver to Bialowieza Village, located in the middle of the primeval forest. There you will meet with your local English-speaking guide who will take you for a long walk by a magical reserve of unique trees which are much older than any human could ever hope to live. Whilst there you can relax in the greenery and enjoy the fresh air of the wild forest.

Your hike will take about 3 hours, after which you will move on to a reserve of the European bison, which is a symbol of the park and the Europe’s heaviest land animal. Only 3,000 exist today in the whole world, out of which 1,200 live in Poland. Nowadays Bialowieza National Park is known as a home to the world’s largest population of these animals. Following the national park, you will be returned back to your Warsaw accommodation.

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