Tag: UNESCO World Heritage site

Tag: UNESCO World Heritage site

Krzemionki Flint Mining Region

Krzemionki

Krzemionki – updated 13 January 2023.

The Krzemionki Flint Mining Region is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in southern Poland, near the city of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski. The site is composed of a series of prehistoric flint mines that were in use from the Neolithic period to the Bronze Age. The flint mines at Krzemionki are considered to be some of the oldest known mines in the world.

Krzemionki is a complex of banded (striped) flint mines, which were in operation during the Neolithic and Early Bronze Ages (3,900-1,600 BC), and have been preserved in an almost intact state.

The Krzemionki Flint Mining Region is an important archaeological site and has provided valuable insights into the social and economic organization of prehistoric societies. The site also has significant historical and cultural value, as it is one of the few surviving examples of prehistoric mining in Europe.

Krzemionki

Striped flint

The Krzemionki mines are located in the mountain region of Świętokrzyskie. The mining complex is composed of over 200 underground mine shafts and galleries, as well as surface mining areas. The mines were used to extract flint, a hard and durable stone that was used to make tools and weapons. Products from the mines have been found as far away as 660km.

The flint mines at Krzemionki were unique because of the large-scale and organized nature of the mining operations, as well as the advanced mining techniques that were used.

Professor Jan Samsonowicz

The Krzemionki mines were discovered in 1922 by a Polish geologist, Professor Jan Samsonowicz. His discovery was significant, Krzemionki is one of the most comprehensive prehistoric underground flint extraction and processing systems identified to date with underground mining structures, flint workshops and around 4,000 shafts and pits.

Krzemionki

UNESCO

The site was designated as a Polish historic monument on 16th October 1994 and inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site on 6th July 2019. The mines provide invaluable information about life and work in prehistoric settlements and the importance of flint mining for tool production in bygone days.

Krzemionki

Tourist route

Small groups of tourists have visited the Krzemionki mines since the late 1950s but they were only available to large groups of visitors since 1985 when Tourist Route No. 1 was made available. A second underground route was opened in 1990 followed by an open-air archaeological museum in 1992.

Visitors to the Krzemionki Flint Mining Region can see the remains of the mines and learn about the history and archaeology of the site through guided tours, educational programs and exhibitions.

The tourist route in Krzemionki is approx. 1.5 km long and presents the original excavations of Neolithic mines, mining heaps and shaft pits that make up the unique industrial landscape from 5,000 years ago.

The underground tourist route in its present form is 465m long, descending 11.5 m at the deepest point.

Krzemionki is located 8km north-east of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski , between the villages of Sudół and Magonie. You can get there by car (route number 754) or by bus from the centre of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski.

FAQ

Krzemionki Flint Mining Region is an important archaeological site located in southern Poland that contains the remains of prehistoric flint mines. Here are some frequently asked questions about the Krzemionki Flint Mining Region:

Q: How old is the Krzemionki Flint Mining Region?

A: The Mining Region is believed to have been in use during the Neolithic period, which is around 6000-4000 BC.

Q: What is the significance of the Region?

A: The Flint Mining Region is an important archaeological site that provides insight into the lives and technology of prehistoric communities. The flint mines at Krzemionki were used to extract high-quality flint, which was a valuable resource for making tools and weapons. The flint mines are also considered as an ancient example of industrial scale mining and organized labor.

Q: What can be seen at Krzemionki Flint Mining Region?

A: Visitors to the Flint Mining Region can see the remains of prehistoric flint mines, including underground mining galleries and surface mining pits. There are also reconstructions of the ancient mining technology and information boards that explain the significance of the site.

Q: Is Krzemionki Flint Mining Region a UNESCO World Heritage Site?

A: Yes, Krzemionki Flint Mining Region is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, added to the list in 2017.

Q: How to get there?

A: Krzemionki Flint Mining Region is located in the city of Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski in southern Poland. It can be reached by car or by public transport. The nearest train station is in Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski, from there you can take a bus or taxi to reach the site.

Q: What is the best time to visit Krzemionki?

A: The best time to visit Krzemionki would depend on your personal preferences. The site is open year-round, but the most pleasant time to visit would be in the warmer months when the weather is more favorable. The site is also open during winter, but it may be more difficult to access the mines due to weather conditions.

Visit the official website

Tarnowskie Góry Mine

Tarnowskie Góry

Tarnowskie Góry – updated 10 January 2023.

Tarnowskie Góry is a historic mining town located in the Silesian Voivodeship in southern Poland. It is well-known for its long history of mining, particularly for silver and lead. The Tarnowskie Góry Lead-Silver-Zinc Mine is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Underground & surface tours

The mine is considered to be one of the most interesting and valuable monuments of the industrial heritage of the region. The mine is open for tourists to visit and there are several different tours available, including a guided tour of the underground mine, which takes visitors through the mine's various levels and chambers, and provides an insight into the life of the miners and the working conditions underground. There are also surface tours which allow visitors to explore the mine's buildings and see the equipment used in the mining process.

Tarnowskie Góry

15th and 16th centuries

A mining settlement and the first silver-bearing ore mines emerged in the region at the turn of the 15th and 16th centuries, today the mine and neighbouring Black Trout Adit are just remnants of a bygone silver mining industry.

During the mid-1930s, the idea to make part of Tarnowskie Góry suitable for tourists was first considered but was put on hold due to the outbreak of World War II.

Tarnowskie Góry

Black Trout Adit

The Tarnowskie Góry Land Lovers Association was founded in the 1950s to look at the feasibility of opening up a tourist route; which led to part of the drainage system called Black Trout Adit being opened to visitors in 1957. For a long time, this was the longest underground boat tour in Poland.

Tarnowskie Góry

Angel, God Bless and Viper

Due to safety concerns, it took a while for a tourist route to be opened within the corridors of the mine itself but eventually in September 1976, the route between shafts: Angel, God Bless and Viper were opened for tourists.

Historic Monument

The mine was declared a Historic Monument by the president of Poland in 2004 and has been a part of the European Route of Industrial Heritage since 2014. The mine and its Underground Management System were inscribed to the UNESCO Heritage List in July 2017.

Underground attraction

Museum

One of the most interesting feature of the mine is the fact that it has been turned into a museum, and it is one of the most unique underground mines of the kind in Europe. it offers an exhibition of mining equipment, interactive galleries and a multimedia presentation on mining history. You will also have the opportunity to see how the miners used to live, with a special historical presentation of the underground housing areas, the history and culture of the Silesia region.

The mine is usually open for tourists with guided tours in several languages. The tour begins in a museum and then goes underground to visit corridors from the 18th and 19th centuries. The underground tourist route is 1,740m long, including 270m travelled in a boat through the flooded corridor. The route includes audio effects such as the sounds of miners working, running carts and blasting works.

Visitors can also learn about the history of the mine, from its origins to the modern period, as well as the geology of the area, the mining techniques used, and the environmental impact of mining. The mine also features a souvenir shop and a café.

Overall, the Tarnowskie Góry Mine is a fascinating and educational experience, that provide visitors with a unique glimpse into the history and culture of the Silesia region, and the lives of the miners who worked there.

FAQ

Q: What is Tarnowskie Góry Mine?

A: The mine is a former coal mine that operated from the late 19th century until 1996. It is located in the town of Tarnowskie Góry in southern Poland and it is considered a valuable monument of the industrial heritage of the region. The mine has been turned into a museum open for visitors, offering tours and exhibitions on the history and culture of mining in the area.

Q: What are some of the things you can see on a tour of the mine?

A: Visitors can take an underground tour of the mine, which takes them through the mine's various levels and chambers and provides an insight into the life of the miners and the working conditions underground. There are also surface tours available, which allows visitors to explore the mine's buildings and see the equipment used in the mining process. Visitors can also learn about the history of the mine, from its origins to the modern period, as well as the geology of the area, the mining techniques used, and the environmental impact of mining. The mine also features a museum, with exhibitions about the history of mining and the lives of the miners, as well as a souvenir shop and a café.

Q: How long does a tour of Tarnowskie Góry Mine last?

A: The duration of the tour will depend on the type of tour you choose. The underground tour typically lasts about an hour and a half, while the surface tour will last about an hour.

Q: Is the Tarnowskie Góry Mine tour safe?

A: Safety is a top priority at the mine, and all tours are guided by experienced and trained guides. Visitors are provided with hard hats and lamps, and are required to follow the guide's instructions at all times. The underground tour is also suitable for children over 7 years old, but it's worth to check the information on the website before planning your visit.

Q: Are there any special requirements for visiting?

A: Some tours may have height or age restrictions, or may require visitors to be in good physical condition. You should check the information on the official website or contact the mine directly to see if there are any specific requirements for the tour you're interested in.

Q: Are there any nearby attractions to the mine?

A: Yes, the town of Tarnowskie Góry is home to several other notable attractions, including:

  • The Tarnowskie Góry Silver Mine, which was an important silver mining site in the region.
  • The Tarnowskie Góry City Hall, which is a beautiful Renaissance building.
  • The St. Ann's Church, which is a beautiful baroque church located in the town center.
  • The Tarnowska Gallery, which is home to a collection of modern and contemporary art.
  • The Silver Mountain, a hill overlooking the city, offering a beautiful view of the region and the opportunity for a hike.

Visit the official website

Tours

Bochnia Salt Mine

12th Century Salt Mine

Bochnia Salt Mine – updated 10 January 2023

Established between the 12th and 13th centuries, the Bochnia Salt Mine, is one of the oldest salt mines in the world and the oldest commercial company in Poland. The mine stopped producing salt in 1990 at which time, it became a tourist attraction. In 2013, a multimedia aspect was added to the tourist route, which spans two kilometres in length.

Bochnia Salt Mine

Underground mining train

The complex offers four different routes for visitors. Among the mine’s attractions, there is the underground mining train that transports tourists along the tourist route, a 140m slide connecting two levels of the mine, and an underground boat crossing.

National Historic Monument

Bochnia Salt Mine is one of Poland’s official national Historic Monuments and has also been added to the UNESCO World Heritage List as an extension of the Wieliczka Salt Mine inscription.

The history of salt extraction in the Bochnia region dates back to 3,500 years B.C. Prior to mining, salt was acquired by evaporating water from brine.

What to see

There’s a lot to see within the mine including historical mining tools and equipment, galleries, chambers and a chapel with train tracks running through it.

The two main parts of Bochnia Salt Mine are the August Passage and the Ważyn Chamber.

The August Passage

The August Passage is the main communication and transportation route in the mine, running from east to west and connecting the Campi and Sutoris mine shafts. The Passage has a depth ranging from 176m to 212m and is nearly 3km in length.

The Ważyn Chamber, which has no supporting pillars, is the biggest chamber in the mine and can be found at a depth of 248m. It is 255m long, 14.4m wide and has a maximum height of 7.2m.

FAQ

Here are some common questions and answers that you might find helpful:

Q: Where is the Bochnia Salt Mine located?
A: The Bochnia Salt Mine is located in the town of Bochnia, which is about 40 kilometers east of Krakow, in southern Poland.

Q: How old is the mine?
A: The Bochnia Salt Mine has been in operation since the 13th century, making it one of the oldest mines in the world.

Q: What is the history of the mine?
A: The mine has a long and rich history. It was first opened in the 13th century and was in continuous operation until 2007. During this time, it played an important role in the development of the town of Bochnia and was a major source of salt for the region.

Q: How deep does the mine go?
A: The mine extends to a depth of 327 meters (1,073 feet) below the surface.

Q: What can I see on a tour of the mine?
A: A tour of the mine will take you through a network of tunnels and chambers, where you can see the salt deposits, mining equipment, and the beautiful chapels that have been carved out of the salt. You’ll also learn about the history of the mine and the people who have worked there.

Q: Is the mine open to visitors?
A: Yes, the mine is open to visitors and guided tours are available. Visitors should take note that the mine is not accessible for people with disabilities, it is not allowed to take big bags, food and drink, or selfie sticks.

Q: How long does a tour of the mine last?
A: A typical tour of the mine lasts about 1.5-2 hours.

Q: Are there any special requirements to visit the mine?
A: Visitors should be aware that the mine can be quite chilly (around 10-12 degrees C), even during the summer months, so it’s a good idea to wear warm clothing. Comfortable shoes are also recommended as you will be walking on uneven surfaces.

Q: Are there any other things to do in the area?
A: In the surrounding area of Bochnia, you’ll find plenty of things to do, including visiting the historic town center, the Bochnia Saltworks Museum, and the Bochnia Castle. There are also many hiking and biking trails in the surrounding countryside. Krakow, being quite close can be a great idea for visit as well.

Visit the Bochnia Salt Mine website.

Bochnia Salt Mine Tour

Highlights

  • Explore the oldest salt mine in Poland
  • Discover the oldest Bochnia mine workings
  • Learn what the work of medieval miners looked like
  • Stop in Tarnow, a charming little city
  • Visit Zalipie with picturesque little houses painted in flowery patterns

Description

After transferring from Krakow to Bochnia, you will experience the oldest salt mine in Poland. Complete with a beautiful underground chapel, you will explore the mine with your friendly English-speaking tour guide.

The mine features galleries which are filled with works of art and statues sculpted into salt. The mine itself was added to the UNESCO Heritage List back in 2013. Later, you will transfer to Tarnow, a charming little city with an originally preserved Old Town which dates back to the 18th century.

The final stop on your tour will be to Zalipie, a true pearl of rural Poland. Here you will discover picturesque little houses painted in flowery patterns, and visiting this small village will truly make you feel as if you have traveled through time. At the conclusion of your tour, you will transfer back to Krakow.

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

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