Grodno Castle is one of the largest and best preserved strongholds of Lower Silesia. Located exceptionally picturesque on the top of the mountain, however, it will appeal not only to history lovers. Why is it worth visiting? What do you need to know before heading to Grodno Castle? Price list, access, sightseeing.
Who built Grodno Castle?
Grodno Castle in Zagórze Śląski boasts over 700 years of history, but the origins of its existence are not very well documented and it is not entirely known exactly who built it and when. The first historical documents concerning the stronghold date only from 1315, while if legends are to be believed, already in 800 a watchtower was supposed to stand in its place, which was then expanded by Duke Bolesław the High. It seems more likely, however, that the castle of Grodno was built by Bolko I, a Świdnik-Jawor prince from the Piast dynasty, only that this was not confirmed by the archival.
These mysterious beginnings, however, are not everything. Historical turmoil has not dealt with the stronghold very graciously. In 1392, Grodno Castle, together with the entire Duchy of Świdnik-Jaworz, was incorporated into the Bohemian Crown and became the property of the royal court. He, in turn, managed it on his own principles, passing it on to successive families who more or less cared about him. Moreover, it also suffered during the Thirty Years' War and subsequent peasant riots. Eventually at the end of the 18th century it was abandoned.
Explore other castles and palaces in the Kłodzko Valley!
How much do you go to Grodno Castle?
The location surrounded by a nature reserve means that there is no possibility of driving directly to Grodno Castle by car. The car park, which is public and free of charge, is located at the foot of the Choina mountain (450 m above sea level), a short walk away. At the same time, the entrance to the top itself is not very demanding, and all the effort is compensated by the greenery located around.
How much does a ticket to Grodno Castle cost?
Currently, the cost of admission to Grodno Castle in Zagórz Śląski ranges from 25 to 30 PLN. Reduced tickets can be used by children, students, pensioners, as well as people with disabilities, among others. In turn, children who are under 4 years old enter completely free of charge.
What else is worth knowing when going to Grodno Castle? Visiting the stronghold is possible on any day of the week and throughout the year except for certain holidays. It is guided from Monday to Friday, while on weekends and public holidays the property can be viewed on its own. In the museum there is also the possibility of renting an audio guide.
What to see in Grodno Castle in Zagórz Śląski?
Grodno Castle in Zagórze Śląski stands out strongly from other monuments of Lower Silesia, attracting with its unusual architecture, picturesque location and interesting legends dating back to the beginnings of its existence. What do you need to see when visiting it?
- The gatehouse decorated with Renaissance sgrafitto technique.
- A wish-fulfilling well that, according to legend, was hollowed out by a Turkish prisoner in exchange for freedom.
- Princess Margaret's dungeon, where the human skeleton is actually located.
- The torture room and penitential crosses once erected by the killer at the scene of a crime committed by him.
- Castle tower with stunning views of the countryside and Lake Bystrzyckie.
- Multimedia Bioeducation Center with a hall dedicated to the Choina nature reserve.
Visiting Grodno Castle — where to stay?
If you want to visit Grodno Castle, you can plan your accommodation virtually anywhere in the area. The stronghold itself is located near Wałbrzych, in a well-connected, publicly accessible location, thanks to which it is easy to reach from various corners of the Kłodzko land. Thanks to the short distance, which connects Książ Castle and Grodno Castle, access to both monuments and see them is possible even in one day! Do you want to know the qualities of the first one? See: Książ Castle — a unique place on the map of the Kłodzka Basin.
When planning such an itinerary, take advantage of the facilities of Vital & SPA Resort Szarotka! This modern accommodation facility is located in the green part of Dusznik-Zdrój and offers free access to the biggest attractions in Lower Silesia. Vicious Rocks? Kłodzko Fortress? Grodno Castle? Accommodation in our resort is an opportunity to see a lot! For this, our guests are waiting for, among others, a swimming pool complex, sauna or SPA rooms. Get to know our entire offer now and make a reservation to enjoy a successful trip!
Photo: Mirosława Mielczarek CC BY 3.0
