Bolków

Bolków is a small historic town in Lower Silesia, situated on the Nysa Szalona river, about 23 km from Wałbrzych. It was founded in the Middle Ages at the crossroads of important trade routes. The main attraction is the ruins of the Gothic castle with a unique 25-meter beak tower – the only one of its kind in Poland. The castle is open to visitors; you can explore the Widows' House, see models of the castle from various periods, walk along the walls, and listen to the blacksmith's tales. There is also a café with the oldest preserved window in Poland. Beneath the castle lies Park u Bolka, an interactive historical park perfect for families. It features a 14-meter sculpture of Duke Bolko II, as well as statues of dragons, knights, and figures from Silesian legends, models of regional castles, a witch's hut, a Mongolian yurt, and a playground. Bolków's market square is a sloping historic square with the 13th-century Church of St. Hedwig (early Gothic), a neoclassical town hall (originally Gothic, rebuilt), and 18th-century arcaded houses. The square is adorned with an angelic fountain depicting a boy reading the Bible. In the town park, you can find a sculpture of Leshy, a Slavic forest demon, who tells stories after scanning a code. Nearby attractions include Świny Castle – the oldest private castle in Poland, with imposing ruins and a tower offering panoramic views – and Niesytno Castle, scheduled to open after renovation in 2027. Bolków is an excellent day-trip destination for history enthusiasts, families, and groups.