The Castle:
PAST AND PRESENT
History
OF KSIĄŻ CASTLE
Książ’s first centuries were marked by a number of stormy events. It changed hands often, belonged to various states, and was destroyed during the numerous wars that were waged there. We indeed know little about the beginnings of today’s castle, and much is missing and unclear, and even contradictory, in its earliest records.
We present below some key historical events which have had a particular influence on the castle’s appearance and cultural significance.
The first written mention of today’s Książ Castle (in German, Fursteinstein). During these years, one of the many strategically significant defensive castles of Bolko I “the Strict”, Prince of Świdnica and Jawor, was being built; the construction was thus acknowledged to be the “key to Silesia”. The newly-built fortress, known from the beginning as “Książęca Góra” or “The Prince’s Heights”, was distinguished from other buildings of this type not only by its militarily advantageous setting, but also for its picturesque location, in the heart of the forest. Bolko I also conferred upon himself the title “Lord of Książ,” which his successors also held.
Photo
GALLERY
BIRD’S-EYE VIEW OF THE MAJESTIC KSIĄŻ CASTLE
The Famous Visitors
OF THE CASTLE
Patrons
OF THE CASTLE
The title of Patron of Książ Castle is the highest status that we confer. With the title, we offer a range of possibilities to present the Patron’s organization, to make use of the services of the Castle, and to take part in further activities related to culture, tourism and the protection of Poland’s heritage.
With thanks for their support in helping the Castle complex to fulfill its mission, and for their help in the protection of our cultural heritage, the Chief Executive Officer of Książ Castle, Krzystof Urbański, has conferred the title of Honorary Patron 2015, to the following.