Zamek Krzyżtopór

Krzyżtopór Castle in Ujazd (Świętokrzyskie Voivodeship) is an impressive but now ruined 17th-century magnate residence. Built between 1631 and 1644 for Krzysztof Ossoliński, it was the largest building of its kind in Europe until Versailles was constructed. Designed on a star plan, it had 365 windows, 52 chambers, 12 halls, and 4 towers – symbolically corresponding to days, weeks, months, and seasons. It combined defensive and palatial functions (palazzo in fortezza). Devastated by Swedish troops during the Deluge and later by Russian forces, it fell into ruin. Yet its scale still amazes, and legends of the White Lady, hidden treasures, and mirrors in the stables spark imagination. A visit typically lasts 1–3 hours and is a great history lesson for families with children.