Duke of Pomerania Castle in Darłowo

The Castle of the Pomeranian Dukes in Darłowo is the only coastal Gothic castle in Poland, built in the 14th century on a nearly square plan. Its construction began in 1352 during the reign of Bogusław V, and from the very beginning, the castle played an important role in the city's history, witnessing Darłowo's cooperation with the Hanseatic League. In later centuries, the castle served various functions, including as warehouses, a hospital, a courthouse, and a prison, and since 1930, it has housed a museum. The castle's history is rich and complex, including its reconstruction by Eric of Pomerania between 1449 and 1459, when its defensive features were strengthened. After the death of Duke Bogusław XIV, the castle came under Danish rule and later into Prussian hands, leading to the destruction of its surrounding walls and its conversion into military barracks. Despite damage during World War II, the castle survived and became the Regional Museum in 1945, with a major renovation taking place between 1971 and 1988. Architecturally, the castle was built on an artificial island between the Wieprza River and the Młyński Canal, with a rectangular brick layout, a high tower, and a richly developed courtyard, including a Knights' Hall with a Gothic vault. The castle was surrounded by a perimeter wall, and during its heyday, it was enriched with a new chapel and additional buildings. Today, as a museum, the castle offers visitors numerous attractions, including thematic exhibitions on the maritime traditions of the region, as well as historical collections such as Baroque furniture and torture instruments. An interesting fact is the preserved height of the tower, which stands at 24 meters, and the diversity of exhibitions showcasing the life and culture of Pomerania. The Castle of the Pomeranian Dukes is not only an important architectural monument but also a key element of the region's history and culture, attracting tourists and researchers alike.