Royal Castle in Chęciny

It would seem that such a well-known attraction as the stronghold in Chęciny has been thoroughly researched and described by archaeologists, historians and geographers. Meanwhile, the castle still hides many secrets that are lost in the darkness of the Middle Ages.

Currently, based on archaeological research, it is believed that the stronghold was established at the turn of the 13th and 14th centuries, although there are no documents that would confirm this thesis. The stronghold has served many different functions in its history.

Conventions of representatives of the knighthood were convened here several times. It was also from here that the army set off for the war with the Teutonic Knights in the 1430s. The safe walls of the castle sheltered the treasures of the crown and the diocese of Gniezno. They were also entrusted with the function of a prison in which war and political enemies were kept. Royal wives also stayed in the Chęciny castle - Adelajda (wife of Casimir the Great) or Sońka with young Władysław Warneńczyk.

Queen Bona was also supposed to have stayed here, although some researchers question this thesis. Certainly, one of the castle legends is associated with this historical figure and his treasures.

In the 17th century, the castle was destroyed by the Transylvanians of Rakoczy, and then by the Swedes during the Deluge. Since then, the stronghold began to fall into ruin. The walls also suffered significantly as a result of warfare in the 20th century and the lack of respect for the monument of the local population, who were looking for easily accessible building material here.

The castle, although never rebuilt, is a well-preserved and secured ruin. A tourist route has been marked out here, thanks to which you will learn the history of the Chęciny stronghold step by step. You will see the dungeons and two courtyards where the daily life of the castle took place.

During the season, you will meet knights here who present their skills, and for a small fee they will teach you the basics of knightly craft. Many tourists conquer the castle walls for the views stretching from the castle walls. The most spectacular panorama extends from the top of the eastern tower. You can see here that Chęciny stands at the junction of two lands - the Świętokrzyskie Mountains in the north and the gentle Ponidzie.