check_circle In a room
check_circle Easy maneuvering with a stroller
check_circle Restaurant or bar nearby
check_circle Access by bus
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check_circle Place adapted for children with disabilities
check_circle Restroom available
Oświęcim Castle – a medieval fortress in the city center
Oświęcim Castle is one of the oldest and most valuable historic sites in the region. It stands on a hill above the Soła River, about 5 minutes from the Market Square. For centuries, it protected an important trade route through southern Poland. One of the main attractions is also the climb to the viewing tower.
Visiting the castle
The exhibitions in the castle show the history of the town, from archaeological finds to the times of Austrian Galicia and the period between the two World Wars. You can look at old newspapers, advertisements, and postcards. You can also see a historic kitchen, a living room, and rooms showing Catholic and Jewish traditions.
Climbing the tower
The most famous part of the castle is its Gothic defensive tower. In some places, its walls are up to four meters thick. In the past, it was the last place of defense during a siege. Today, it is a great viewpoint where you can see Oświęcim and the Soła River valley.
The tower was built from handmade bricks. It is the oldest brick tower in southern Poland. Originally, the entrance to the tower was 10 meters above the ground. People entered by wooden stairs, which could be removed easily to stop attackers. At the bottom of the tower there was a prison. Prisoners were lowered into the dungeon on a rope. The lower entrance was made only about 200 years ago, when the tower was no longer used as a prison.
The Soła River boulevards
After visiting the castle, it is worth taking a walk along the boulevards by the Soła River. This is one of the most popular walking areas in the town. After recent modernization, the area became a modern park with paths, playgrounds, and rest areas, while still keeping its natural riverside character.
Here you can find, among other things:
- Wide asphalt paths, good for walking with a stroller or roller skating
- A modern playground for children and equipment for teenagers
- A water playground
Easy
Soła River Boulevards in Oświęcim: Water Playground and Nature Trail
Castle guide:
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