Introducing Ogrodzieniec
Claiming prime position on the highest hill of the upland (504m), the ruins of Ogrodzieniec Castle (032 673 2220; admission 3zł; 9am-sunset Apr-Oct) look like they belong in a medieval-style fairytale. Incorporating natural rock in its foundations and parts of the walls, the fortress was built during the reign of King Kazimierz III Wielki but enlarged in the mid-16th century by its owner, Seweryn Boner, a wealthy banker from Kraków. Boner employed Italian masters from the royal court to remodel the castle into a Renaissance residence. After exploring the nooks and crannies of this enormous complex, it’s easy to believe reports that the castle was once as splendid as Wawel.
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The Swedes started the process of ruination in 1655, and the abandonment of the castle by its owners in the 1810s led it to become a tourist attraction.
Last updated: Feb 17, 2009
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How to cram in as much as possible into a day and a half in Krakow.....
by carlyheather 02 May 2011
We are going to Krakow and will be doing the Auschwitz and Salt mine tours/visits, and also would like to fit in Ogrodzieniec as well…
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