Czersk Castle of the Mazovian Dukes

The Castle of the Dukes of Mazovia in Czersk is a Gothic structure built at the turn of the 14th and 15th centuries on the site of a former early medieval stronghold. In the 11th century, a wooden and earthen fortress stood here, serving as the main administrative center of the Duchy of Czersk. During the reign of Duke Konrad of Mazovia, the stronghold was the scene of political turmoil, including the imprisonment of Duke Henryk Brodaty (Henry the Bearded). In the 14th century, the castle was erected on the site of the former stronghold and became one of the key residences of Janusz I, Duke of Mazovia. After the incorporation of these lands into the Kingdom of Poland in 1526, the castle became royal property, and Queen Bona commissioned its reconstruction, including the construction of a brick residence and gardens. In the 17th century, the castle was destroyed during the Swedish Deluge, and further damage occurred after the Third Partition of Poland. The first conservation works were carried out in the 20th century. The castle has an irregular layout, with the entrance gate located in a monumental Gothic tower. Three towers and sections of the walls have been preserved, including the foundations of the Church of St. Peter, making the castle a valuable site for tourists and historians. In the 1970s, the castle was also used as a filming location for the music video of the band Skaldowie's song "W żółtych płomieniach liści" (In the Yellow Flames of Leaves), highlighting its cultural significance. Today, the castle is open to visitors, attracting history and architecture enthusiasts.