Old Castle

Old Książ Castle, a romantic structure from the turn of the 18th and 19th centuries, is located on the right bank of the Pełcznica Gorge, within the Książański Landscape Park in Lower Silesia. Built between 1794 and 1797 by Jan Henryk VI von Hochberg according to a design by Christian Wilhelm Tischbein, the castle is an eclectic transformation of a medieval fortress constructed by Duke Bolko I the Strict in the 13th century. The original structure consisted of a stone upper castle and two fortified lower castles, and after being cleared of the remnants of the Gothic castle, it was transformed into romantic ruins. Old Książ was surrounded by a moat, and the entrance to the building was through a gate with turrets. After World War II, the castle suffered damage from a fire, and today only fragments of the architecture remain, including Renaissance portals and remnants of the main building. From a historical perspective, the medieval castle lost its significance in the 14th century and gradually fell into ruin. A key event in its history was its capture by the Hussites in 1428, followed by destruction by knight-robbers. Today, Old Książ Castle is an intriguing site due to its architectural qualities and rich history, making it a popular destination for tourists seeking traces of the past in the picturesque landscape of the Sudetes. Nearby, visitors can also explore the much larger Książ Castle, adding to the region's appeal.