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.

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.

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.