Chudów Castle

Chudów Castle is a Renaissance structure dating back to the 1530s, built by Jan Saszowski on the site of a former wooden defensive tower. Constructed from stone and brick, the castle was designed with a rectangular layout featuring a central courtyard, arcaded galleries, and a well. It originally consisted of two three-story residential buildings and a quadrangular tower, which gained a sixth floor during a 19th-century reconstruction, becoming the dominant feature of the complex. A fire in 1874 devastated the building, leaving only ruins behind. In 1995, the "Chudów Castle" Foundation was established to undertake reconstruction and archaeological work. After taking ownership of the site in 1999, the foundation began restoring the castle to its former glory. Between 2000 and 2004, the tower was rebuilt and now functions as a museum showcasing archaeological discoveries. The foundation also organizes various cultural events, such as the "Meetings at Chudów Castle," with the most popular being the August Medieval Fair. A notable feature of the castle’s surroundings is Poland’s oldest black poplar, known as Tekla, which has been designated a natural monument since 1981. A small playhouse called "Chatka Puchatka" (Winnie-the-Pooh’s Little House) has been arranged inside its trunk. Chudów Castle combines rich history, valuable architectural elements, and vibrant cultural life, making it an attractive destination for tourists and history enthusiasts alike.