Lesko Castle

Lesko Castle, built between 1538 and 1712, is a late Gothic structure situated in the San River valley, which now serves as a holiday resort. It was constructed on the site of an earlier wooden fortress erected by the Kmita family, who became the first owners of the castle after relocating from Sobień. Following the devastation of Sobień Castle by Hungarians and Vlachs in 1512, the Kmita family undertook the ambitious project of building a new complex, which allowed for the restoration and development of local culture and administration. The castle is an example of architectural evolution, with renovations carried out in the 17th and 18th centuries that introduced Renaissance and Baroque elements, including fortifications and changes in the spatial layout of the structure. In 1704, the castle was severely damaged by the Swedes, and reconstruction lasted until 1712, when it was rebuilt in the well-known classicist-neo-Renaissance style. In the 18th century, the castle passed into the hands of various families, including the Ossolińskis and Mniszechs, and in the 19th century, it came under the ownership of the Krasickis, who transformed it into a modern residence between 1836 and 1874. The castle witnessed many historical events, including destruction during both world wars, which caused immense material losses. After World War II, the castle underwent a series of ownership changes; in 1956, it was rebuilt by the KWK "Makoszowy" coal mine and converted into a holiday resort for miners. Currently, the castle is owned by the Gliwice Tourist Agency, ensuring its continued development as a tourist attraction in the region. An interesting fact is that in the past, the castle housed a rich collection of books, and in 1693, its library contained as many as 325 titles. Lesko Castle, with its rich history and elaborate architecture, is an important element of Poland's cultural heritage.