The Książ Castle or Zamek Książ is the largest and most famous castle in the Silesia region. It is located north of Wałbrzych in Lower Silesian Voivodeship. The castle is surrounded by Książ Landscape Park which includes the Waldenburg Mountains. Overlooking the gorge of the Pełcznica river, the Książ Castle looks like it is straight out of a fairytale.
The castle is open to the public year-round, but the best time to explore the surrounding area is from April to October. The terraces are open only during the warmer months from April to September.
Książ Castle history dates back to the 13th century. The Bohemian King Ottokar II destroyed an old fortress at this site in 1263, then the Silesian duke Bolko I the Strict ordered a new castle to be built there in 1288-1292. After the castle was complete, he took residence there with his family.
The Nazis confiscated the Książ Castle during World War II and decided to build an underground addition to the castle. Tens of thousands of prisoners, mainly the Jewish, were forced to work on the huge structure with 12-meter ceilings. The castle was part of Project Riese, one of the largest top-secret Nazi initiatives during the war. It was supposed to become Adolf Hitler’s personal headquarters. Treasure seekers still look for Nazi gold that was supposedly hidden around the castle.
Practical info
When should a tourist consider visiting Książ Castle?
April to October is the appropriate time to visit Książ Castle, as the terraces in the surrounding landscape are open during this time, and visitors can enjoy the beautiful scene of the Waldenburg Mountains. The castle is open throughout the year, but the experiences are better during the warmer months. Tourists can choose to explore the park and the surrounding area while staying there, depending on their requirements. Show more
What is the historical significance of Książ Castle?
Książ Castle holds immense historical significance, as it was used as the dwelling of Bolko I the Strict, the Silesian duke. It was one of the most massive secretive projects undertaken by Nazis during WWII, and they used Książ Castle for the same. Książ Castle was part of Project Riese, and it is said that the Nazis had planned to use it as Hitler’s personal office. The castle remains a spot of attraction for many as it continues to captivate tourists. Show more
What was the reason behind the confiscation of Książ Castle?
The Nazis confiscated Książ Castle to utilize it under Project Riese, a secretive initiative to develop various underground bases across Lower Silesia. Książ Castle was considered a prospective site for the personal residence of Adolf Hitler. The underground space under the castle was built by tens of thousands of prisoners, mostly Jews, who were forced into working. The place was notorious to be a site of experimentation for advanced weapons for the inhumane Nazis. Show more
Where is Książ Castle located in Poland?
Książ Castle is situated in the northern part of Wałbrzych, Poland, in the Lower Silesian Voivodeship. Tourists can find the castle in the scenic Książ Landscape Park. It is the most significant attraction of the Silesia region and is open to visitors all year. It is a must-visit destination for tourists who are visiting Poland for the first time as they can easily lose themselves in the natural ambience of the castle. Show more
What kind of unique features does the scenic Książ Landscape Park encompass?
The Waldenburg Mountains view is not the only reason why tourists should visit Książ Landscape Park. Visitors can explore the park’s dense forests, spectacular gardens, waterfalls, and streams. There are innumerable hiking trails nestled amidst the park that add to the exploring experience. The Palm House, spread across 5-hectares, houses diverse plant species from every corner of the globe. Visitors also have the chance to learn about the history of the area by visiting the Museum of Nature located nearby. Show more
