Bochotnica Castle

Bochotnica Castle, also known as Esterka Castle, is the ruins of a Gothic defensive fortress built after 1340 on a steep slope of the Bystra River valley. Its dimensions are approximately 30 × 35 meters. The site was entered into the register of historical monuments of the Lublin Voivodeship in 1970. The castle originally served as an administrative and defensive center, and in later years became a refuge for robbers. In the 16th century, it underwent an early Renaissance renovation, but as early as 1585, it was described as being on the verge of ruin. Archaeological research suggests that before the stone fortress was built, there was a wooden and earthen stronghold here. The castle was likely built by the Firlej family following Tatar invasions. After changes in ownership in the 15th century, involving the Zbąski and Oleśnicki families, its condition began to deteriorate. Despite attempts at reconstruction in the 19th century, mainly by Józef Klemensowski, the castle was ultimately abandoned. The architecture of the castle changed over the centuries; initially, it had a rectangular, tower-less layout, which was later enriched with new wings and a gate with a drawbridge during expansion phases. Archaeological discoveries also reveal fragments of tracery and vaults, indicating the structural complexity of the building. Culturally, the castle was surrounded by numerous legends, including one about Esterka, the Jewish mistress of Casimir the Great, and another about Katarzyna Zbąska, known for her banditry. It is said that the castle was connected to other fortresses by underground tunnels, which, according to local lore, were still in use at the beginning of the 20th century. The castle ruins are the subject of numerous studies and tourist interest, and their unique history combined with their architecture creates a fascinating image of the medieval heritage of the Lublin region.