Fellow travellers, we invite you on an extraordinary journey, to the heart of the Świętokrzyskie Voivodeship, where in the picturesque village of Ujazd stand the monumental ruins of Krzyżtopór Castle. It’s a place of fascinating history and unique architecture that arouses admiration and, let’s be honest, prompts deep reflection. Before the famous Versailles was even built, Poland had a residence that could certainly compete with it, at least in size and splendour. Isn’t that incredible?

Today, Krzyżtopór Castle in Ujazd stands as a preserved ruin, but its walls still whisper tales of former glory. We have prepared a guide for you, dear explorers, that will allow you to look behind these stone walls and uncover all, well, maybe almost all, the secrets of this extraordinary place. You will also learn the most interesting **facts** related to its history and architecture. You will discover what Krzyżtopór Castle looked like in its heyday, learn about its turbulent fate, and, we hope, understand the significance of every architectural detail that has survived to our time. Believe us – the ruins of Krzyżtopór Castle are a travel destination that will stay in your memory for a long, indeed a very long time. Ready to delve into the past and get up close with Krzyżtopór?

The History of Krzyżtopór Castle – a Tale of Passing Time

The history of this place is, I must admit, as colourful and complex as its architecture. Krzyżtopór Castle, located in Ujazd, on the old, distinguished Sandomierz region, has for centuries been a witness to great events and the changing fortunes of magnate families, powerful and less powerful. Its history is a tale of ambition, of immense wealth, but unfortunately, also of passing time and, horrifyingly, of destruction. From the moment construction began in the 17th century, which was a challenge in itself, to its modern-day accessibility to tourists as a preserved ruin, Krzyżtopór has come, oh, it has come a long way. By learning about the castle’s history, it’s much, much easier to understand its unique character and appreciate the efforts put into its current preservation as a permanent ruin.

The Beginnings of Construction and the Founder: Krzysztof Ossoliński, Visionary or Dreamer?

It all began in the early 17th century, when the estates in the area of Iwaniska became the property of the powerful Ossoliński family, acquiring them from the Ligęza family. The Iwaniska land key included, among others, this particular location, Ujazd, which proved to be an ideal place to erect a new, impressive seat. The initiator and **founder** of this, it must be said, enormous undertaking was Krzysztof Ossoliński, a significant figure – a political activist, Sandomierz Chamberlain, and later even Sandomierz Voivode and a member of the Sejm (Parliament), bearing the Topór coat of arms. Born in Bukowsko in Podkarpacie, he gained, for that era, a broad education, studying at the Jesuit college in Lublin, and subsequently travelling throughout Europe and studying in Würzburg, Bologna, Padua, and Paris. Krzysztof Ossoliński enriched himself, among other things, through wartime supplies, which in those days was likely quite a lucrative pursuit, and it was this that allowed him to undertake such a costly investment. Construction work began in the 1620s. Local materials were used, such as quartzite sandstone and dolomite obtained from the rocky subsoil, as well as bricks produced from nearby clay deposits – demonstrating a focus on resource utilisation. Interestingly, some of the work was carried out by Turkish and Tatar prisoners of war, which adds a certain, shall we say, exotic touch to the castle’s history. The author of the palace’s design was probably a builder known as Lauretius de Sente, also known as Wawrzyniec Senes. Some historians suggest that the castle’s form might have been composed with the assistance of Italian architects, such as Matea Castello or Agostin Locci the Elder, heirs to the architectural ideas of J. B. da Vignoli. Construction of Krzyżtopór Castle was completed in 1644, just before the founder’s death, as evidenced by a most telling inscription on the palace. In February 1645, Krzysztof Ossoliński died suddenly, having not long enjoyed his magnificent residence. His only son, Krzysztof Baldwin Ossoliński, received the castle as a wedding gift, what a gift!, and became the heir to, unfortunately, a heavily indebted estate. One could say that from the outset, some fate hung over the castle.

The Significance of the Symbolism of the Cross and the Axe in the Architecture – a Hidden Message?

The very name ‘Krzyżtopór’ is, I believe, key to understanding the ideological programme that Krzysztof Ossoliński interwoven into the architecture of his residence. It’s an extensive programme, closely linked to Polish history and culture of the Mannerist and early Baroque era, a time full of symbols and hidden meanings. On the gate tower, from which the castle’s modern name derives (although, it’s worth remembering, it was originally simply called Krzysztopór), two massive bas-reliefs were placed: a cross and an axe. The cross was a symbol of the Voivode’s faith and politics, a reference to his, let’s not hide it, strongly counter-reformation stance and resistance to any ‘religious novelties’. The axe, on the other hand, is the emblem of the Ossoliński family’s **coat of arms**, symbolising the family’s glory and power. A telling inscription was placed on a plaque on the gate: ‘The cross defence / the cross support / children of our Axe’, emphasising both faith and family tradition. The castle facades were once adorned with portraits and inscriptions, forming a kind of ‘golden book’ of the magnate’s genealogy, and that probably best testifies to his family pride. The entire spatial layout and architectural details were, without doubt, saturated with symbolism, reflecting the founder’s wealth and, how vivid, worldview.

The Tragic Fate of the Castle After Krzysztof Ossoliński’s Death

After Krzysztof Ossoliński’s death, his son, Krzysztof Baldwin, inherited the estate. Unfortunately, this young Ossoliński died childless as early as 1649, struck, according to sources, by a Tatar arrow during the Battle of **Zborów** as part of the Khmelnytsky Uprising. His body, brought to Ujazd, was identified by his second wife, Anna Zebrzydowska, as foreign, which, you must admit, adds a note of mystery to his already tragic death. After him, the palace was inherited by the founder’s brother, Jerzy Ossoliński, Crown Grand Chancellor, who died of a stroke as early as 1650 – short-lived, wasn’t it? The estate was taken over by his daughter, Urszula Brygida, married to Samuel Jerzy Kalinowski, Crown Quartermaster. Samuel Jerzy Kalinowski also shared a tragic fate, dying fighting the Cossacks in the Battle of Batoh in 1652. The fortunes of the Ossoliński family and the first owners of Krzyżtopór were evidently exceptionally turbulent.

The Iwaniska estates along with Ujazd subsequently passed into the hands of extended family and related noble families, such as the **Kalinowskis** (who remained owners until 1701, that’s longer), the Wiśniowieckis, the Morsztyns, the Sanguszkos, the Denhoffs, the Pacs, the Sołtyks, and finally the Orsettis. Inhabited until 1770, Krzyżtopór experienced further cataclysms, so typical of the history of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth of that era. During the **Swedish** invasion, known as The Deluge, in 1655-1657, Swedish troops under the command of General Robert Douglas entered the castle in October 1655. The Swedes, with the district governor Johann von Essen, who was quartered there with 400 reiters, set up, one can imagine, quite a comfortable quarter there, and King Charles Gustav himself even stayed in Ujazd, awaiting a meeting with George II Rákóczi, Prince of Transylvania. Unfortunately, they left Krzyżtopór in 1657, having thoroughly stripped it of its furnishings – a sad story. The layout of the castle was then captured by the quartermaster of the Swedish forces and, it must be said, a brilliant draughtsman, Erik Dahlberg, in his engraving, which appeared in Samuel Pufendorf’s work ‘De Rebus A Carolo Gustavo Gestis’.

Despite the devastation, after the Swedes withdrew, the Wiśniowieckis likely inhabited the building. In 1720, the **Morsztyn** family of the Leliwa coat of arms settled there. Another, albeit short-lived, breakthrough was the restoration of the southern part of the residence by Michał Jan Pac of the Gozdawa coat of arms, a general of the Lithuanian forces, in 1760. As one of the leaders of the **Bar Confederation**, he made the castle chambers available to the confederates, making Krzyżtopór, for a time, an important point on the map of struggles. Unfortunately, in 1770, during fighting with the Russian army, which sought to suppress the confederation, the building was, alas, captured and burned. From that moment, in 1770, the castle has been in ruins – a pivotal date in its history. Michał Pac went to Marainville in France and bought a castle there, evidently not giving up a life of splendour. The Ujazd estate was acquired from his family by the **Bishop** of Krakow, Kajetan Ignacy Sołtyk, in 1782, who bequeathed it to Stanisław Sołtyk, Crown Cupbearer. In 1787, King Stanisław August Poniatowski himself even visited the castle, about which Adam Naruszewicz wrote, how perceptively, that he came ‘to view the remains of the once famous palace in Ujazd’. Stanisław Sołtyk gave the castle as a dowry to his daughter, Konstancja née Sołtyk Łempicka, wife of Ludwik Stanisław Łempicki, Senator-Castellan of the Kingdom of Poland. The Łempicki family, interestingly, treated the ruins as a romantic attraction, which Napoleon Orda captured in a lithograph. In 1858, the castle was bought by the **Orsetti** family, who remained its owners until 1944.

The ruins of Krzyżtopór served as a refuge for the January Uprising **insurgents** in 1863, when near Szczeglice, the insurgent cavalry commanded by Captain Wojciech Turski fought a Cossack unit. During World War I, the local population and residents of the **nearby** manor house also found asylum in the castle, because even in ruins, the walls offer a sense of security. During the German occupation, members of the armed group ‘Jędrusie’ test-fired weapons in the castle cellars, showing that even the ruins had strategic importance. In retaliation for an attack by **Polish** partisans on the car of Opatów’s Landrat Otto Ritter in April 1944 in the hamlet of Haliszka, German gendarmes executed 55 prisoners from the Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski detention centre beneath the castle walls, in a horrific act of terror. Their relatives, informed of the execution, came to Ujazd and at night, risking their lives, exhumed the bodies of the murdered Poles. It’s a story that grips the heart. Towards the end of 1944, the Red Army stored food supplies in the ruins, indicating their practical value. After the end of hostilities, Krzyżtopór, along with the landed estate, was nationalised by the State Treasury – a typical post-war fate for such properties. During the PRL (Polish People’s Republic), work on the castle’s **reconstruction** was started and halted twice, which, frankly, shows a certain inconsistency. Various development plans were considered by universities and state institutions, e.g., by the ‘Siarkopol’ Sulphur Mines and Processing Plants, and the Sobieski Institute is considering **reconstruction** as part of the idea ‘Rebuilding the Past’ – ambitious plans, we’ll see what comes of them. In 1972, on the initiative of Professor Alfred Majewski, director of the Management for the Restoration of Wawel Royal Castle, responsibility for the castle was taken over by that very Management – which was a good move. A team of architects from Krakow University of Technology, led by Professor Elżbieta Dąmbska-Śmiałowska, carried out research, and Dr. Hab. Arch. Jan Kurek created the first axonometric drawing presenting the castle’s original appearance on a 1:400 scale – extremely valuable work. This is essentially a historical **visualisation** of what the castle looked like. The Ministry of National Defence even secured funds for reconstruction, however, what an irony of fate, it never came to fruition.

In 2008, the Mayor of the Iwaniska commune established the Krzyżtopór Castle Cultural Institution in Ujazd to manage the site, ceasing cooperation with SKTiOZK. Between 2010 and 2013, the Iwaniska commune implemented the project ‘Krzyżtopór Castle a Brand Product of the Świętokrzyskie Voivodeship’, co-financed by European Union funds from the European Regional Development Fund – EU funds often save such historical sites, don’t they? During this time, the Intercollegiate Institute of Conservation and Restoration of Works of Art carried out comprehensive revalorisation and **partial** adaptation of the castle, including rooms in the ‘Smok’ (Dragon) bastion for tourist service needs. Archaeological research was then conducted by Mgr A. Gołembnik and Mgr A. Jaskuła.

The Architecture of Krzyżtopór Castle: Craftsmanship and Symbolism

The architecture of Krzyżtopór Castle is a true display of craftsmanship and imagination, and at the same time an example of an innovative approach to residential construction in those times. Situated on a rocky headland, surrounded by ravines and waterlogged terrain created by a watercourse, the castle is a harmonious combination of **palace** and defensive elements – which in itself is intriguing. Its form and layout aroused, and frankly, still arouse admiration among experts and laymen alike. The National Heritage Institute recognised it as a Monument of History in 2018, thus highlighting its exceptional importance for **Polish** cultural heritage. The whole of Poland can be proud of it.

The Unique Style of Palazzo in Fortezza: A Combination of Palace and Fortress – Is It Possible?

Krzyżtopór Castle represents a style rare in Poland but known in Europe, called *palazzo in fortezza*, which means a palace with defensive features. It’s a new type of structure, combining the comfort of residents with a defensive function, a response to the needs of magnates who wished to reside in magnificent conditions while feeling safe in turbulent times. Its form, it is believed, references the cardinal’s seat of the Farnese family built in the town of Caprarola in Italy, but Krzyżtopór, at the time of its completion, was the largest building of its kind in Europe, at least until the construction of the much more famous Versailles. That must mean something!

The Pentagon Plan and the Layout of Bastions – an Engineering Masterpiece?

The castle was built on a regular **pentagonal plan**, with **bastions** at the corners – this is the basis of its defence. These five bastions, bearing names that sound quite mysterious: Szary Mnich (Grey Monk), Smok (Dragon), Korona (Crown), Oto dla Ciebie (This One’s For You), and Wysoki Rondel (High Rondel), were a key element of the defensive **layout**. The line of defence was marked by an earthen rampart made of stones, connecting the bastions – a simple and effective solution. A rampart walk ran along the top of the embankment, and firing positions were located on the stone parapets, including, interestingly, key-shaped loopholes in the Wysoki Rondel bastion, from where defenders could fire in various directions. The entire sequence of stone-and-earth fortifications, approximately 600 metres long, was surrounded by a dry moat carved into the rock, whose depth further hindered access – what an effort! Communication with the outside world was provided by bridges, including an arched, single-span stone bridge that transitioned into a wooden drawbridge over the moat, leading to the entrance gate. Quite well thought out, wasn’t it?

The Castle Interiors: Dining Hall, Ballroom, and Other Rooms – What Remains?

The main compositional axis of the **complex was**, as in many such buildings, the gate tower and the bastion called Wysoki Rondel, with an octagonal tower. This axis crossed the trapezoidal main **courtyard**, passed through the palace block (interrupted, interestingly, by a neck), led to the elliptical inner courtyard, and then through a rectangular annex and a tower ending in a viewing rotunda. From the rotunda, one could enjoy – one can only dream – a magnificent view of the vast valley with water features, the nearby Italian garden (situated across), and in the distance, the majestic Holy Cross Mountains. The facade of the palace building, particularly on the elliptical courtyard, was decorated with Baroque rustication and repeating triumphal arch motifs with niches in which, as A. Miłobędzki wrote, portraits were placed, dedicated among others to Andrzej Zebrzydowski, Krzysztof Lanckoroński, and Konstanty Wiśniowiecki, representatives of magnate families related to Ossoliński. As can be seen, almost all trends in contemporary **Polish** art merged in the residence, creating a fascinating mosaic of styles.

An annex wing ending in an octagonal tower was added to the building on the **western** side. This tower was built at the site where the local spring Krzyżtopożanka flows out – a practical solution. From the elliptical courtyard, a large vaulted tunnel led to this spring, supplying the castle with running water – this was, as far as I know, an extraordinary convenience for that era. Above the tunnel were two halls that most ignited, and still ignite, the imagination: the dining hall on the first floor, where, according to tradition, the ceiling was said to be made of glass, allowing diners to admire fish swimming in a huge aquarium placed above (although whether this truly existed, we don’t know for sure). Above the dining hall was a ballroom with a gallery for the orchestra and boxes along the walls – a place of true opulence. Attached to the palace were storeyed, single-tract side wings, known as outbuildings. They formed a complex layout with two small and one large trapezoidal courtyard. The ends of the outbuildings were topped by four quadrangular towers, which were higher than the side wings. In the ground-level part of the outbuildings were rooms for servants, while the cellars housed the famous stables for 300 horses, equipped, as legend has it, with marble troughs and crystal mirrors in rich settings, intended to illuminate the **rooms** (one can only imagine the sight!). The castle also had, which testifies to its modernity, an advanced heating and ventilation system. Today, from all that splendour, primarily the walls remain, preserved to about 90 per cent, although only 10 per cent of the vaults have survived to our time – that’s still quite a lot. The ruins have preserved remnants of sgraffito decoration and stone details that constituted the original decoration of window openings and portals, a testament to former beauty.

The Significance of Numbers in the Castle’s Design: Calendar Symbolism or Just Coincidence?

It is believed that Krzysztof Ossoliński’s passion for the magic of numbers, mysterious symbols, and astrology had a great influence on the layout and spatial arrangement of the palace **building**. These numbers were intended to symbolise the longevity of the Ossoliński family and reference the calendar – a fascinating idea, if true:

• 4 bastions symbolised 4 seasons.
• 12 halls symbolised 12 months.
• 52 rooms symbolised 52 weeks in a year.
• 365 windows symbolised 365 days in a year, and reportedly one, walled up, symbolised a leap year (but that’s just a legend, albeit a beautiful one).

On the gate tower, to the left of the entrance portal, a mysterious sign resembling a stylised letter W is still visible, which some interpret as a hieroglyph signifying eternal duration, in accordance with Aramaic ornamentation – sounds intriguing. Theories have also emerged that it might be the Habdank or Dębno coat of arms, but there is no **information** as to why Ossoliński would place these coats of arms here. You see, Krzyżtopór hides many mysteries!

Krzyżtopór Castle in Culture and Art

The majestic ruins of Krzyżtopór Castle have for years been a source of inspiration for creators and artists – that’s probably obvious. Their picturesque, slightly mysterious appearance attracts filmmakers, musicians, and artists seeking unusual outdoor locations and settings. You can see old engravings, but also contemporary **photos** of Krzyżtopór, which showcase its majesty. Krzyżtopór has permanently inscribed itself into Poland’s cultural landscape, becoming the subject of films, TV series, music videos, as well as literary and artistic works.

Film and TV Series Productions Filmed at Krzyżtopór – Do You Recognise These Scenes?

The ruins of Krzyżtopór Castle in Ujazd have served as a backdrop for many, I must admit, well-known film and TV series productions. In 1986, some scenes for the **Polish** fantasy film ‘Przyjaciel wesołego diabła’ (The Merry Devil’s Friend), directed by Jerzy Łukaszewicz, were filmed here – does anyone remember that film? Fans of Polish television will certainly recognise the castle from the 46th episode of the 4th season of the popular series ‘Ojciec Mateusz’ (Father Mateusz), titled ‘Skradziona miłość’ (Stolen Love), directed by Maciej Dejczer, produced in 2010. In 2011, the black-and-white film ‘Księstwo’ (The Principality), directed by Andrzej Barański, was made at the castle, and in 2013, the Polish film ‘Gabriel’, directed by Mikołaj Haremski, was filmed here. International productions also appreciate Krzyżtopór’s uniqueness – in 2021, a promotional clip for the computer game ‘Lineage W’ was filmed at the castle, featuring Kit Harington in the main role – yes, the one from ‘Game of Thrones’! (although it was only a brief appearance).

Krzyżtopór as a Venue for Concerts and Music Videos – What Do the Stables Hide?

Not only filmmakers, but also musicians readily utilise Krzyżtopór’s extraordinary scenery. In 2023, a music video for the song ‘Bite Me’ by the South Korean band ENHYPEN was filmed at the castle, indicating, it seems, the global reach of fascination with this place. Interestingly, it is said that the famous castle stables possess excellent acoustic properties, making them potentially an attractive venue for concerts or other cultural **events** – can you imagine a concert amidst these historic walls?

The Castle in Literature and Art – Inspiration for Generations

Krzyżtopór has inspired artists for centuries, even before it became a ruin. As early as the 17th century, its plan was captured in an engraving by Erik Dahlberg in Samuel Pufendorf’s work ‘De Rebus A Carolo Gustavo Gestis’. In later years, the castle appeared in drawings, such as one by Alfred Schouppe from 1860, or lithographs by Napoleon Orda – showing that the ruin too had its charm. The aforementioned Adam Naruszewicz wrote about King Stanisław August Poniatowski’s visit to the ruins – even the king was curious! Franciszek Xawery Bartkowski also mentioned the castle in his text ‘Dożynki 1882’ (Harvest Festival 1882). Krzyżtopór has become a permanent fixture in **Polish** culture, being a **symbol** of bygone power and a testament to the turbulent history of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, which, as can be seen, still arouses emotions.

Visiting Krzyżtopór Castle: What You Need to Know

Today, Krzyżtopór Castle is a preserved ruin, fully accessible to tourists since 1991. Despite the lack of full furnishings or exhibitions, which for some might be a drawback, the size, form, and state of preservation of the walls make **visiting** Krzyżtopór an unforgettable experience, truly. Many visitors share positive **reviews** after visiting. The Krzyżtopór Castle Cultural Institution in Ujazd manages the site, ensuring its maintenance, often thanks to European funds – which, as you can see, is effective. When heading to Ujazd, it’s worth planning sufficient time to, without rushing, discover all the nooks and crannies of this fascinating stronghold, and believe me, there are plenty of them.

Available Routes and Visiting Hours – How Best to Visit?

Krzyżtopór Castle in Ujazd offers visitors several **routes** marked out as part of the tourist offer. Currently, five visiting routes are available, which can be combined and crossed freely, although movement in some areas is one-way for safety reasons – it’s important to be careful. Rooms and chambers up to the second floor level are accessible to tourists. The cellars and underground areas are particularly gloomy and mysterious, connected by a narrow, dark tunnel, where it’s certainly worth bringing a torch, as my friend the **guide** says, because you won’t manage without one. You can also choose a separate walking route along the top of the defensive walls, which runs around the pentagonal shape of the former palace wings, offering magnificent views of the courtyard and the surrounding area – the views from there are truly impressive. Visiting Krzyżtopór Castle is, of course, ticketed. Information on **tickets**, current **prices**, and the option to purchase **online** can be found on the official website.

The castle’s opening hours depend on the season. During the tourist season, which **runs** from April 1st to October 31st, the castle is open from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM – plenty of time for visiting. Outside the tourist season, i.e., from November 1st to March 31st, the **opening hours** are shorter – from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Occasionally, the castle also organises special night tours, which allow you to experience the extraordinary atmosphere of the ruins after dark – that must be an unforgettable experience, mustn’t it?

Facilities for Tourists – Is the Castle Accessible to Everyone?

Certain facilities for visitors have been provided on the castle grounds. Rooms in the ‘Smok’ (Dragon) bastion have been adapted for tourist services – a good point to start your visit. It’s worth noting that only assistance animals accompanying disabled persons are allowed onto the ruins, which, although understandable, might be an inconvenience for some pet owners.

Practical Information: Getting There and Parking – How to Get There?

Information on **how to get there** can be found below. The castle address is Ujazd 73, 27-570 Iwaniska. The castle is located by road number 758, which connects Iwaniska with Klimontów, making it easy to find. It is situated about 15 km southwest of Opatów. You can reach Ujazd by car or by using public transport, e.g., PKS buses (although, as always, it’s worth checking current timetables, as these change). We have prepared a **map** showing how to get there for you. You can easily check the **map** on **Google Maps**. Parking areas are located near the castle ruins, which, importantly, make access easier. One of them is located near the south-western curtain wall – to reach it, you need to turn onto the road towards Toporów. In summary, reaching Krzyżtopór should not pose a major problem.

Mysteries and Legends of Krzyżtopór Castle – What Do the Walls Whisper?

Like any old, impressive building, especially one in ruins, Krzyżtopór abounds in mysteries and legends that have circulated among local residents for centuries – and that’s what’s beautiful about such places. These stories add an aura of mysticism to the place and stimulate visitors’ imagination. Some of them are more fantastical, others based on facts, but all together they form an extraordinary mosaic of tales connected with the castle.

Legends and Tales Associated with the Castle – A Glass Ceiling and Marble Troughs?

The most famous legend is that of the glass ceiling in the dining hall and a huge aquarium placed above it, where exotic fish were said to swim, admired by diners standing beneath the aquarium. Although it sounds extraordinary, it testifies to the evident immense wealth and, frankly, the fantasy of **Krzysztof Ossoliński** – could anyone really have **built** such a thing in the 17th century? Other tales concern the famous castle stables, where horses were said to eat from marble troughs, and crystal mirrors were supposed to enhance the splendour and illuminate the rooms – can you imagine that? There’s also a tale circulating about an underground tunnel that was said to connect Krzyżtopór with the castle in Ossolin, belonging to the founder’s brother, Jerzy Ossoliński – that sounds like a script for an adventure film. At the ground level of the northern tower flows a spring supplying the castle with running water, called Krzyżtoporzanka, which local tales consider to be medicinal – who knows, maybe it’s worth trying? In one of the underground rooms, you can see small stalactites and stalagmites that have grown as a result of 300 years of rainwater leakage through the limestone vaulting, which, all things considered, constitutes a very tangible and real trace of the passage of time.

Ghosts and Mysterious Signs – Is the Castle Haunted?

Naturally, a ghost is also associated with such an old place. Reportedly, the ghost of Krzysztof **Baldwin** Ossoliński, the founder’s son who died near Zborów, wanders through the castle – do you believe in such things? Another mysterious element is the sign resembling a stylised letter ‘W’, placed on the gate tower to the left of the entrance portal. Although interpreted as a hieroglyph signifying eternal duration, hypotheses have also emerged that it might be the Habdank or Dębno coat of arms – and it’s fascinating that there’s no definitive answer. Krzysztof Ossoliński’s passion for astrology, the magic of numbers, and mysterious symbols certainly, without doubt, contributed to the **emergence** of many speculations about hidden meanings in the castle’s architecture – and that’s probably what makes this place so intriguing.

Extraordinary Events from the Castle’s History – Not Just Legends

The castle’s history abounds in extraordinary and often, unfortunately, tragic events. Besides the famous burning by Russian troops in 1770 during the Bar Confederation, it’s worth mentioning events from the period of World War II – history likes to repeat itself. In the castle cellars, members of the armed group ‘Jędrusie’ test-fired weapons, which shows the ruins’ use by partisans – even in destruction, the castle served Poland. One of the most moving, and tragic, episodes was the retaliation by German gendarmes for the attack on Landrat Otto Ritter’s car in the hamlet of Haliszka – evil, as you can see, reached this place too. In retaliation on May 25th, 1944, they executed 55 prisoners from the Ostrowiec Świętokrzyski detention centre beneath the castle walls, in a horrific act of terror, which is, quite simply, a monstrous crime. The victims’ relatives came to Ujazd and at night, in secret, exhumed the bodies of the murdered Poles – a gesture of courage and love that is moving. Towards the end of 1944, the Red Army stored food supplies in the ruins, which was part of the logistical support before the great winter offensive – history did not spare Krzyżtopór. There was also a rumour circulating, which seems utterly improbable, from the 1960s about a mysterious US citizen who wanted to buy the ruins of Krzyżtopór, cut it into blocks, transport it to his property in Texas, and reassemble it – while this might sound implausible, it shows what a great impression the building made, even in ruin.

Krzyżtopór and the Surrounding Area: What Else is Worth Seeing?

The Świętokrzyskie **Voivodeship** is a region full of treasures, and Krzyżtopór Castle is, frankly, just one of them, albeit a very important one. Anyone who enjoys hiking trails and discovering history will inevitably associate these areas with the majestic Holy Cross Mountains. The area around Ujazd and **Iwaniska**, in the Sandomierz region, offers many more tourist attractions that are worth combining with a visit to the ruins of Krzyżtopór Castle – plan for more than one day! When going for a weekend from Warsaw, which has the advantage of being close to everywhere (it’s only about 130 km from the capital to the border of the Świętokrzyskie Voivodeship, not that far, is it?), you have the chance to discover fascinating places full of history, palaces, castles, and, most importantly, beautiful landscapes. It’s worth planning a longer stay here to fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the region, which is truly unique.

Tourist Attractions in the Area of Ujazd and Iwaniska – What Does the Region Hide?

Besides Krzyżtopór Castle itself, there are several other interesting places within a short distance of Ujazd. It’s worth, for example, visiting the Neolithic Settlement in Kopiec, located just over a kilometre from Krzyżtopór in Ujazd – that’s a great combination. A village from over 5,000 years ago has been reconstructed here, showing the life of people in the Stone Age, belonging to the Funnelbeaker culture, and that’s quite a bit of **history**. They were an agricultural community, leading a sedentary lifestyle – how different from ours! You’ll learn **how** building walls were made of wattle and daub sealed with clay, how roofs were covered with reed, and how granaries were constructed on elevated platforms to protect stocks of grains cultivated at that time (wheat, barley, millet) from moisture – quite clever solutions. You’ll also learn **how** tools began to be made from flint mined in the nearby Krzemionki, replacing previously used granite – the **beginning** of technology! You’ll learn how the inhabitants used aurochs and oxen to pull wheeled carts, and in a vase found in Bronocice (also in the Świętokrzyskie Voivodeship) you’ll see the oldest depiction of a wheeled cart used in Central Europe, dating back to 3700 BC – impressive, isn’t it? The exhibition also introduces the beliefs of the people of that time, who worshipped deities identified with animal figures, such as the ram, and the role of shamans, who were capable, among other things, of performing trepanation of the skull, which sounds… incredible. Visiting the settlement is certainly worth combining with a visit to the castle, creating, I think, a very interesting educational and historical trip.

Nearby, in Kurozwęki, is a knight’s castle that **underwent** reconstruction in the Baroque style, becoming a palace – another gem of the region. At the Palace in Kurozwęki, you’ll find the only herd of American bison in Poland (yes, bison!), a small zoo, and the famous maize maze – it’s an attraction for the whole family. The shape of the maze is different every year and has depicted, among others, Pope John Paul II, motifs related to the European Championships in 2012, Koziołek Matołek (The Little Goat Matołek), Chopin, and Tadeusz Kościuszko – as you can see, they have imagination!

It’s also worth visiting the medieval town of Szydłów with its preserved defensive walls, compared to the **Polish** Carcassonne – and that’s a recommendation in itself. In the vicinity, there are also relics of other castles and defensive structures, including the relics of knight’s castles in Konary, Tudorów, Rembów, and Rytwiany, relics of the royal castle in Międzygórz, or the castellated church in Ptkanów, interestingly. The ruins of the magnate’s castle Ossolin, which once belonged to Jerzy Ossoliński, the founder of Krzyżtopór’s brother, are also nearby – it’s worth seeing **what** his castle looked like.

Places Connected with the Region’s History and Culture – More Than Just Castles

The Świętokrzyskie region abounds in places of rich history and culture. If you’re already there and don’t climb Łysa Góra (Bald Mountain), the second highest peak in the Holy Cross Mountains, where a famous sanctuary is located, that is, in my opinion, a sin! You can ascend it via the famous Royal Route. Furthermore, it’s worth discovering the charm of Sandomierz, a picturesque town on the Vistula River, or visiting the Tokarnia Ethnographic Park, showcasing the region’s folk architecture – you can see how our ancestors lived there. Although Zalipie is famous for its painted cottages, similar examples, though perhaps less known, can also be found in the Świętokrzyskie region. The Hermitage of the Golden Forest, although it currently functions as a Catholic-business point with a church (which, I must admit, sounds a little… unusual), also has its interesting history.

Where to Stay: Hotels and Accommodation Nearby – Our Recommendation

If you’re looking for **accommodation** with the atmosphere of castles, palaces, parks, and history, we have an ideal recommendation for you, which we hope you’ll like. A little further from Ujazd, but worth every minute of the drive, is a visit, and ideally a stay overnight, at Sichów House and Library in Sichów Duży (Rytwiany commune) – it’s a place that has a soul. This manor house from 1792 has for centuries (not counting, well, the times of the PRL) been in the hands of the same family, the Radziwiłłs (and the host, Mr Paweł, is a descendant of the Radziwiłłs, Potockis, and Popiels! – impressive, isn’t it?). The Palace in Rytwiany shares a history with Sichów House, as relatives of the Radziwiłłs from Sichów lived in the Palace. The current hosts, Amber (an American) and Paul (a Scot) Kieniewicz, moved to **Poland** to take care of the house and make it available to guests – a wonderful initiative! The actual HOUSE, i.e., the manor house, currently undergoing restoration, houses the famous Radziwiłł Library. The Guesthouse, formerly the stables and servants’ quarters, offers comfortable rooms (rated 9.3 on booking platforms! – that speaks for itself). Furthermore, the property features a beautiful park and a vineyard (yes, a vineyard!), and for the active, a tennis court and free bike rental. There’s also a playground for children – so there’s something for everyone. Our, I can confidently say, amazing hosts have created a magical place. With sleeping Leo in my arms, I inadvertently interrupted a lively conversation between the host and tourists over wine, books, and by the fireplace (but I envied them!) in the small library or lounge – that kind of atmosphere is something rare. Breakfast was very tasty and plentiful, truly pampering. Of course, there are other accommodation options in the area, e.g., in nearby Opatów, but staying under a roof restored by the Radziwiłłs, in a place with such history, is, in my opinion, a completely different kettle of fish! We recommend it wholeheartedly, which, unfortunately, once happened to us (and which we still remember unpleasantly to this day, highlighting how important a good place to rest is during travels) – so our recommendation is sincere and based on experience.

Krzyżtopór Castle: Heritage and Future – What Next?

Krzyżtopór Castle in Ujazd is not just a ruin, it’s a living monument of history and architecture, which has held the status of a Monument of History since 2018 – an important formality. It is a **symbol** of Krzysztof Ossoliński’s power and vision, and at the same time a testament to Poland’s turbulent history, which has left its mark here. Despite the destruction, the castle’s spatial layout is preserved to about 90%, and the walls, standing at 600 metres in length, are also 90% intact (although, as I mentioned, only 10% of the vaults have survived, which is a certain drawback, but understandable). Its unique *palazzo in fortezza* style and numerical symbolism continue to fascinate architecture enthusiasts, who often treat themselves to drones to admire the castle’s majesty from dozens of metres up – and that’s a great idea, you get the best view of it from above. The ruin, which from street level looks quite unassuming, fully reveals its splendour only from above or when wandering through the vast courtyards and corridors – you have to go inside! The Krzyżtopór Castle Cultural Institution in Ujazd is dedicated to preserving this heritage, making the castle accessible to tourists and organising events such as the Knights’ Tournament for Krzysztof Baldwin Ossoliński’s Sabre and night tours – thanks to this, the place is alive. The castle’s future still inspires hope – will it ever be possible to **reconstruct** it, even **partially**? Time will tell, for now we can only speculate. For now, we can admire it in its current form, gaining knowledge from its **history**, admiring the architecture, and seeking traces of its former glory. By visiting Krzyżtopór, we not only get to know a fascinating historical site but, most importantly, we touch a piece of Polish history that still pulsates within these old walls, waiting to be discovered.