Gola Castle, Gola, Poland - SpottingHistory

According to inscription above its main entrance, the Gola Castle was erected by Leonard von Rohnau beginning in 1580. The whole structure was built with granite rock. The original Renaissance-style edifice was enlarged in the years 1600–1610. It went through transformations at the beginning of the 18th century and was finally restored at the turn of the 20th century.

The Castle was partially destroyed in the 1945 bombardment and the last owners, the family von Prittwitz und Gaffron, were expelled after World War II. Thereafter, the Castle gradually fell into ruins. The wonderful Park surrounding the property also became dilapidated. However, both the Castle and Park are now under strict protection. Gola Castle is of special interest because it is one of the oldest and largest castles built in the Renaissance style in this region.

Most probably the Renaissance castle was built on the site of a more ancient middle age construction. The middle age castle had a defensive character, as shown by the steep escarpment on the western side, the wet moat from the east, and the double stone walls surrounding the edifice.

The Renaissance Castle has been built as a quadrilateral building with an interior courtyard. A 300-year-old linden still grows in the middle of the courtyard. At the beginning of the 17th century, the tower has been added to the initial construction on the eastern corner. From these days, the shape of the building remains untouched. The caste has a reconstructed portal and walls with sgraffito decoration.

Gola Park is below the level of the Castle. This 13-hectare Park features more than 1600 trees representing approximately 35 species from all over the world. A large water system irrigates the Park. The Gola river running through the Park waters seven of the ponds. The unique atmosphere created by the ponds and vegetation still remains today even as many of the ponds became overgrown over the years.

The Park has a very rich diversity of flora and fauna. The main path leading from the upper part of the Park where the Castle stands is surrounded by centenarian beech trees.

The latest inventory of flora in Gola Park was catalogued in Autumn 2001. The work was performed by the following team: Ewa Domaszewska, Artur Barcki and Cedric Gendaj.

1619 trees and 36 different species were collected and catalogued during this inventory. For a full version of the inventory and a detailed description of each tree, please have a look at reference file (only available in Latin and Polish)).[3]

References:

Wikipedia

Castles and fortifications in Poland

User Reviews

Kris Hary (2 years ago)
The staff is very well trained, food is great and the hotel is clean and elegant in every single spot. 5 stars no doubt.

Kamila Glinz (2 years ago)
An unforgettable experience! The most beautiful and charming place to relax that I have ever visited. Their cuisine is as great as everything else in this fairytale castle and the staff didn't have a single flaw. Thank you all very much for their care. I will definitely be back here soon... ?

giovanna (2 years ago)
Two stays during two consecutive weekends. One last minute girls night (senior suite), one valentine's day package (standard room). Both rooms were very clean and spacious, with all toiletries included or provided upon request (like shower gel). Bathrobes, pool towels, slippers, coffee&tea set were available too. You can use a room service for some quick snacks. Pool, jacuzzi and saunas are included in the price of the room. Pool is indeed quite chilly, there is also a paddling pool for kids (but without any specific attractions, sadly, like a slide or anything). There is one wet and one finnish sauna (the latter was out of order during my second stay). Keep in mind they are not very big as well as the relaxation area. But the staff keeps everything clean, there is always fresh water and some dried fruits to enjoy. The spa I only used once for a massage (deep relaxing one) - it was a wonderful experience that ended way too soon ;) The breakfasts have a variety of choices, including ones provided on request (like scrambled eggs, omeletts or oatmeal). There are also some vegan options. The restaurant has a very short menu, for some people it may be hard to pick even one dish (they are also all quite expensive). For my first stay I chose the duck which was heavenly. The second time we enjoyed a tasting menu with a total od five dishes - all very tasty. There is some kids menu too. The wine list is extensive, but quite pricey. The only downside for the restaurant is it's size - you really need to make a reservation for a dinner. Check-ins from 2pm and check-outs until 12pm are really great if you want to enjoy the pool/sauna also during the next day.

Natalia Mazur (2 years ago)
Amazing place to stay. The building is nicely renovated, but still you can see some parts of the old castle. Food is masterpiece. We had two dinners here and I can say it was spectacular culinary experience. Varied breakfast with option to get different types of eggs per request every morning. Pool was nice. I highly recommend to take a walk along seven ponds. The only thing we were not astonished was SPA. We took massages and it was relaxing, but nothing special. If you are looking for great experience and nice stay I would not look any further, you will not be disappointed. Stay here is worth the price.

Tom O. (2 years ago)
Very friendly staff and open to customers with flexible approach. All wishes have been well considered. The hotel is fresh and well maintained. SPA, gym and Wellness very much recommended. Swimming pool great. Restaurant fantastic with delicious courses. Internet fast. Neighbourhood very calm and relaxing. We came with two children in January and found our great time here. I am sure everyone can find its own place here, the facility is inspiring.

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