Ksiaz Castle, Walbrzych, Poland

Książ Castle, the third largest castle in Poland, is located on a majestic rock cliff by the side of the Pelcznica River. Beautifully surrounded by the forest within a 315500 actre nature reserve, at the height of 395m above sea level, castle is often called ‘the Pearl of Lower Silesia’. Such location corresponding to the size of the building is very rare in Europe.

Książ (in German Fürstenstein) was built in 1288-1292 under Bolko I the Strict (Duke of Świdnica and Jawor) after the original fortification was destroyed in the year 1263 by Ottokar II of Bohemia. Duke Bolko II of Świdnica died in 1368 without having children with his wife Agnes von Habsburg. After her death in the year 1392 King Wenceslaus IV of Bohemia obtained the castle. In 1401 Janko from Chociemice obtained the castle.

The Bohemian Hussites occupied the castle between 1428-1429. In the year 1464 Birka from Nasiedla obtained the castle from the Bohemian crown. He sold it to Hans von Schellendorf. This second castle was destroyed in 1482 by Georg von Stein. In the year 1509 Konrad I von Hoberg obtained the castle hill. The Hochberg family owned the castle until the 1940s.

Jan Henryk XV carried the the biggest development in the Castle’s history. Between 1908 – 1923 north and west renaissance extensions were being developed. Castle’s tower has reached the height of 47m and was covered with the domed helmet and the lantern. Also the Castle’s gardens took its current shape.

The castle was seized by the Nazi government in 1944 because the Prince of Pless Hans Heinrich XVII had moved to England in 1932 and became a British citizen, also his brother Count Alexander of Hochberg who was a Polish citizen and the owner of Schloss Pleß (today Pszczyna Castle), had joined the Polish army. Fürstenstein castle was a part of the Project Riese (a construction project of Nazi Germany, consisting of seven underground structures located in the Owl Mountains) until 1945 when it was occupied by the Red army. All artifacts were stolen or destroyed.

Up to 1956 the castle was decaying the the restoration took place between 1956-1974.

References:

Castles and fortifications in Poland

User Reviews

Aamir Pervez (3 months ago)
We Visited Ksiaz Castle in Mid of May, a very enjoyable and memorable trip. It’s really a Beautiful Castle ?❤️ As, I am from Pakistan ?? we don’t have such Castle so visiting this place for me was exceptional experience. ?

Jessica Helsel (4 months ago)
The self-paced tour through the castle was incredible! And we went while they had Christmas decorations, so it was even more beautiful. Recommend the underground tour as well - it was interesting and moving.

Al Dr (7 months ago)
Ksiaz Castle in Poland is an awe-inspiring gem! The castle's rich history, stunning architecture, and breathtaking views make it an unforgettable experience. With over 400 rooms and a sprawling 316 hectares of grounds, Ksiaz Castle is a true marvel. Its grandeur and charm captivate visitors, while the surrounding landscape adds to the enchantment. A must-visit destination!

Lusia Pi (7 months ago)
Did both the castle and the underground tour. As non-Polish speakers, we're very impressed by the audioguide. Works seamlessly as you walk through the castle and exhibition. Very much intrigued by the family history and a lot of information is provided. We spent hours, so make sure to have enough time if you want to visit other sights as well. Also with the underground tour, we didn't feel left out with the audioguide. All in all a very fun, informative day. Definitely worth a visit!

Leo Guide (8 months ago)
Książ Castle is the largest castle in the region of Silesia, and the third-largest in Poland behind Malbork Castle and Wawel Castle. In my opinion, it is a must-visit destination. Unfortunately, the interiors were destroyed by the Nazis during the WWII but parts of it were restored and available as part of the museum.

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Photo from Flickr, copyright Roman Moško

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History of the castle cliff dates back to the Roman Empire, what is proved by the inscription on the castle cliff proclaiming the victory of Roman legion against Germans in the year 179.

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