Rzeszów Castle

Rzeszów Castle is a four-wing architectural complex in the style of a palazzo in fortezza, built between 1902 and 1906 as the seat of courts and a prison, on the site of the demolished fortified palace of the Lubomirski family. Previously, in the 16th and 17th centuries, there stood a defensive manor of Mikołaj Spytek Ligęza, who transformed it into a modern fortress providing defense against enemies. The castle underwent a series of transformations, mainly under the watchful eye of architects such as Tylman of Gameren and Karol Henryk Wiedemann, resulting in military and architectural improvements. After being taken over by the Lubomirski family, the castle lost its significance, and its fortifications were destroyed as a result of battles, such as during the Swedish "Deluge" or the war with the Cossacks. After World War I, the castle served as a prison, and during World War II, it was the site of mass executions of Poles, including members of the resistance movement. During the communist period, the castle cells once again became a place of torture and executions. After 1981, the castle ceased to function as a prison but remains the seat of the court. The building has undergone several renovations and currently retains features from 1906, including the historic tower and bastions. In recent years, work has been underway to create a tourist route, and there are plans to relocate the regional museum to the castle, which would enhance its tourist appeal. Rzeszów Castle is not only an important historical and architectural element of the region but also a reminder of a turbulent past marked by wars, occupations, and changes in function.