Bolków Castle

Bolków Castle is a Gothic stronghold towering over the town of Bolków in Lower Silesia, one of the oldest and most picturesque monuments of medieval defensive architecture in Poland. Its history dates back to the 13th century, with the first mention in 1277. The castle is famous for its unique in Poland beak tower, whose shape resembles a beak or a teardrop and provided protection against cannon fire. In Piast times it was the most powerful fortress in Lower Silesia and served as a ducal treasury, never captured by enemies. Today, a museum operates in the Renaissance part, and visitors can climb the Gothic tower for a panorama of Bolków and the surroundings, as well as walk around the castle walls. In the House of Women, exhibitions include models of the castle from various periods. The castle hosts knight tournaments, early music concerts, and the Castle Party festival in July. In the café, you can see the oldest preserved window in Poland with a wooden cross dating to the late 13th century. Below the castle lies Bolk Park, telling the story of Duke Bolko II the Small and featuring models of nearby castles. The castle is part of the Trail of Piast Castles, about 150 km long and covering 15 castles. It is attractive for families, groups, and school trips, with paid parking, a café, and a gift shop.