Książ Castle

Książ Castle, located in Wałbrzych, is the third largest fortress in Poland. Its history dates back to the Middle Ages, when the first stronghold was supposedly built in the mid-10th century by a knight named Funkenstein. The castle was first mentioned in 1293 as part of the title of Duke Bolko I. Since then, it has undergone numerous renovations, with the most significant ones taking place during the Renaissance and Baroque periods. The current neo-Renaissance structure makes it difficult to identify medieval elements, with the only clear remnant being the quadrangular tower. Książ played a key strategic role as the "key to Silesia." In the 16th century, the castle became the property of the Hochberg family, who contributed to its expansion and transformation into a representative residence. In the 18th and 19th centuries, the estate was enriched with a landscape park and numerous architectural monuments, including a summer pavilion. Książ also witnessed many historical events, including the Thirty Years' War, culminating in its seizure by the Third Reich authorities in 1939, which led to its destruction. The period of World War II brought dramatic changes, including the conversion of the castle into Adolf Hitler's headquarters and the construction of underground tunnels. After the war, the castle suffered from vandalism, and its valuable collections were looted. It was only after 1956 that conservation work began, restoring some of its former glory. In 1991, the castle was handed over to the Wałbrzych municipality, and since 2005, further stages of renovation have been ongoing. Today, Książ Castle attracts tourists with its rich history, numerous cultural events, and the annual Festival of Flowers and Art, which gathers up to 100,000 people. It is worth noting that in 2021, the National Bank of Poland commemorated the castle by issuing a commemorative coin. Książ is also part of the Trail of the Piast Castles, which further enhances its tourist appeal. The complex includes many objects listed in the register of monuments, and while walking around the castle, visitors can admire not only its architecture but also the picturesque surroundings of the Książ Landscape Park.