Piast Tower in Cieszyn

The Piast Tower, situated atop a hill in Cieszyn, is a Gothic defensive structure from the first half of the 14th century, serving as a remnant of the castle of the Dukes of Cieszyn. Built on a square plan, it features five stories and stands 24 meters tall, with lower walls reaching a thickness of up to 2 meters. The tower is characterized by its pointed-arch and semicircular windows, and in the 15th century, it gained a brick gallery topped with machicolations and battlements. The interior is adorned with stone heraldic shields featuring Piast eagles, which, according to tradition, were crafted in a workshop associated with Master Peter Parler. The tower is not only an architectural element but also a symbol of Cieszyn and its Piast history. The tower’s basement houses Europe’s longest 65-meter ice tunnel, once used for storing beer. The tower’s history is rich: it was repeatedly affected by fires and the Thirty Years’ War, leading to its ruin. After multiple restorations, including in the 20th century and the most recent in 2015, it is now open to visitors and offers panoramic views of Cieszyn and the surrounding mountain ranges. The tower also stands out for providing accommodation for holders of honorary passes. Interestingly, the site has become not only a tourist attraction but also an element of local culture related to brewing, drawing tourists and history enthusiasts alike.