Ogrodzieniec Castle

Ogrodzieniec Castle was originally built in the Gothic style in the 14th century, and ownership has since passed through several families. The structure was replaced by a Renaissance-style castle in the mid-16th century but was then damaged by Swedish troops on several occasions and was eventually abandoned as a residence in 1810. The castle’s ownership was eventually nationalized after World War II, and it was fully restored and opened to visitors in 1973.
Located on Castle Mountain, the highest hill in the Krakow-Czestochowa Upland, Ogrodzieniec offers amazing views of the surrounding area. It is a stop on the Trail of the Eagle’s Nests, a marked trail between Krakow and Czestochowa connecting 25 medieval castles, and has been used as a set for several movies and television shows. Locals claim that the castle is haunted by a large black dog that is said to be the spirit of former owner, the Castellan of Krakow, Stanislaw Warszycki.

Practical Info

Ogrodznieniec Castle is about an hour’s drive from Krakow and is best accessed by car. It is open year-round from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and admission is about $3. A tourist information center is located inside of the castle.