Krzyżtopór

Krzyżtopór, located in Ujazd in the Świętokrzyskie Voivodeship, is a monumental palace-residence built between 1621 and 1644 by Krzysztof Ossoliński, the voivode of Sandomierz. Regarded as one of the largest palace structures in Europe before the construction of Versailles, it captivates with its Italian-style palazzo in fortezza architecture. The castle features a pentagonal layout with corner bastions, and its stone and brick structure is distinguished by a three-story palace with an elliptical courtyard, surrounded by gardens and fortifications. The site holds the status of a historical monument and is open to visitors, offering five different tour routes. The castle's history is turbulent; its founder, Krzysztof Ossoliński, died shortly after its completion, and the property passed through the hands of various owners, including the Kalinowski family and Michał Jan Pac. Since the 1970s, reconstruction efforts have been undertaken but were interrupted due to various political and financial circumstances. In recent years, the castle has become a popular tourist attraction, with its distinctive fortifications and tour routes adapted to modern standards. Krzyżtopór also holds a place in pop culture, serving as the backdrop for numerous films and music videos, including "Przyjaciel wesołego diabła" and a music video by the band ENHYPEN. An interesting fact is that the castle's name derives from the combination of Christian symbolism (cross) and the Ossoliński family coat of arms (axe), which were placed above the entrance gate. Krzyżtopór, with its traces of former grandeur, stands as a symbolic site connecting history, architecture, and culture, with the potential for further development as an attractive tourist destination.