Grodno Castle, Walbrzych, Poland

Grodno Castle (formerly Kynsburg) is a castle located in the southern parts of the Wałbrzych Mountains, on the Choina Mountain (450 metres), standing to the left of the river Bystryca. The valley of this river, formerly known as the Silesian Valley, creates a natural boundary between the Owl Mountains and to the west of it the Wałbrzych Mountains. The castle is located in Zagórze Śląskie (11 km east of Wałbrzych), Lower Silesian Voivodeship in Poland.

The picturesque location of the castle is exacerbated by the barraged Lubachowskie Lake in the foothills of the mountain.

According to tradition the castle was built in 1193, by Duke Boleslaw I the Tall. The castle, together with a network of fortresses was used as a defense line between the Duchy of Jawor and the Kingdom of Bohemia. In the sixteenth century Grodno Castle was expanded by a gatehouse, on which there is precious sgraffito, and a sundial clock from 1716. The castle was devastated in battles against the Swedes during the Thirty Years' War, slowly falling into ruins. In the nineteenth century the tower had collapsed. The last owner of Grodno, was the Zedlits family, which had continued renovation works and strengthened the castle

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Castles and fortifications in Poland

User Reviews

Isida Ios (18 months ago)
A wonderful old castle from the 13th century. It is small, but it’s worth going there for the picturesque view on the high tower and in the scary dark dungeon. You will also spend no less time walking through the forest on the mountain, where the air is clean.

Pieter Markey (2 years ago)
Lovely castle that you can visit at your own pace with an audioguide. The information provided is interesting but an option to learn more of the details was not provided. The castle itself is beautiful, renovated in parts with respect for its history. Climbing the tower gives you a wonderful view of the surroundings. We were a bit worried about conservation as some of the paintings, chairs and tables seem to be exposed to the elements. When visiting, take into account a 10min uphill hike on medium rough terrain. If you have mobility issues you can drive up to the castle, but inside it will be difficult to visit. Also dogs are not allowed. If you are in the neighbourhood, give this lovely castle a visit.

Iman Moaddel haghighi (2 years ago)
Grodno Castle (Zamek Grodno) is a medieval castle. You need to walk for 15 minutes through the jungle to reach the castle. The castle is built with two and a half floors, and you can enjoy the landscape from the highest tower. I strongly recommend this place.

Jonas Fuchs (2 years ago)
Lovely castle with modern displays and information. All available in multiple languages, incl. English. The hike up from the dam is quite easy for fit people, but may be slippery and tricky for elderly. It is possible to reach by car also. There are amazing views from the tower which I highly recommend.

Malwi (2 years ago)
Well preserved medieval castle with beautiful view from the tower and amusing tour guide. A peaceful place to rest too with some snack options and local produce.

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