Historical Museum in Bielsko-Biała – Castle of the Sułkowski Princes

The Castle of the Sułkowski Princes, located in Bielsko-Biała, is a monumental 14th-century structure built by the Cieszyn Duke Przemysław I Noszak. It served as an urban fortress, guarding the borders of the Duchy of Cieszyn and becoming part of the city's fortification system. From the end of the 16th century, the castle gradually lost its defensive functions, transforming into a noble residence and an administrative-economic center, and after 1752 it became the seat of the Duchy of Bielsko. The last reconstruction between 1855 and 1864 gave it an eclectic facade. After World War II, the castle became the seat of the Museum in Bielsko-Biała, which offers a rich exhibition, including Polish and European art, militaria, ethnography, and the history of the region. Notable features of the museum include the 19th-century staircase, the militaria hall, and collections of sculptures and paintings, including works by renowned artists such as Peter Michal Bohúň and Jacek Malczewski. The castle has been the site of important historical events, and its combination with ethnographic exhibits highlights the multiculturalism of the region. Interesting elements include preserved fragments of Renaissance polychrome and rich collections of documents related to the history of local guilds. The castle also houses a Music Salon, which serves as a space for organizing concerts and cultural events. The history of the museum dates back to the beginning of the 20th century when two separate museums were established in Bielsko and Biała, which were merged during the occupation. After the war, the Museum in Bielsko-Biała gained importance, and its collections grew, making it one of the largest regional museums in Poland. With its rich architecture, the castle is not only a significant tourist attraction but also a witness to the history, culture, and art of the region.