Grodziec Castle - Jewel of the Land of Extinct Volcanoes

Grodziec Castle is located in Pogórze Kaczawskie, Dolny Śląsk, Poland. This Castle has featured in many TV and movie productions including "The Ogre" starring John Malkovich. It is known as one of the first Castles restored and open as a tourist attraction in Europe. The first settlement on the extinct volcano, rising nearly 400 metres above sea level, existed here in the days of the Bobrzanie Slavic tribe. The current layout of Grodziec Castle was designed and built in 1470 by the Duke of Legnica, Frederick I. The majesty of one of the most beautiful Gothic-Renaissance residence in Silesia became its curse. For centuries it attracted successive invaders. Charged with the costs of maintaining the castle, residents of the neighbouring villages decided to remove the troublesome structure from the face of the earth thus assisting with its demolition. Fortunately, this objective was only partially realised. In 1800, after parts of the ruins were secured, rebuilt and the main building refitted, Grodziec Castle became the first venue in Europe especially prepared for tourists. One hundred years later, thanks to a major refurbishment, it regained its former glory and the subsequent opening of a museum here was made by Emperor Wilhelm II himself, assisted by ministers and numerous courtiers. The castle has maintained its tourist character to this day, offering not only sightseeing but also a range of accommodation and organisation of events.