Romantic Ruins of the Old Książ Castle

Everyone knows the famous Książ Castle, the story of the Amber Room and the Golden Train. However, few know that nearby, there is an old fortress transformed into romantic ruins, surrounded by an equally mysterious aura. Here are the ruins of the Old Książ Castle…

Table of Contents:

1. Short History
2. Mysteries of the Old Książ Castle
3. Ruins Today
4. Getting There

Short History

The history of the Old Książ Castle is imprecise, and there is little information about it. The origins of this place date back to the 10th century, when a small settlement was established here. The next mentions are from the 13th century, when it became one of many fortresses guarding the borders of the Duchy of Świdnica-Jawor. Further details remain unknown, and the castle was likely forgotten after the construction of the nearby Książ Castle. It wasn’t until around 1794 that Hans Heinrich VI Hochberg ordered the restoration of Old Książ Castle, transforming it into the romantic ruins that were fashionable at the time.

The ruins were transformed in the Gothic style and included several halls, a tower, an armory, bedrooms, a prison chamber, and even dungeons. There was also a tournament courtyard with stands, where regular tournaments were held.

In the early 20th century, Old Książ Castle was a lively place. It had a restaurant and even guest rooms. The site was very popular until the outbreak of World War II.

The Secrets of Old Książ Castle

Until quite recently, visitors to Old Książ Castle could descend into the underground chambers. So, why were they bricked up? There are several theories, and their origin and scale remain a mystery.

One theory suggests that an underground train station was supposed to be built beneath Old Książ Castle. Another, in my opinion the most likely, is that the tunnels led to Książ Castle. Yet another claims there was an underground laboratory or an arms storage facility.

During World War II, it is believed that chemical weapons of mass destruction were created there, designed to kill all nearby organisms through intense radiation.

Each theory holds a kernel of truth. Thanks to this mysterious atmosphere, exploring the ruins feels even more magical.

Ruins Today

Currently, the site is not very popular and is not widely advertised. Beautiful trails with wooden bridges lead to Old Książ Castle. You may even encounter mouflons along the way.

Unfortunately, the underground chambers and cellars have been bricked up or filled in, but you can still fully admire the remains of the walls, stairs, the courtyard, and even visit the observation point.

Entrance to the castle is free.

Getting There

1. Viewpoint to Książ Castle (descent on the right side) – Green/Red Trail – Bridge – Green/Red/Yellow Trail – Red Trail – Old Książ Castle (1.5 km, about 40 minutes)
2. Wrocławka Street, Wałbrzych – Green Piast Castle Trail – Spisz – Green/Red Trail – Red Trail – Old Książ Castle (1.6 km, about 40 minutes)
3. Stanisława Moniuszki Street, Świebodzice – Red/Blue/Green/Yellow Trail – Bolko Yew Tree – Red Trail – Książ Gorge – Red Trail – Old Książ Castle (2.1 km, about 1 hour)
4. Stanisława Moniuszki Street, Świebodzice – Red/Blue/Green/Yellow Trail – Bolko Yew Tree – Green/Red Trail – Książ Castle – Green/Red Trail – Bridge – Red Trail – Old Książ Castle (3 km, about 1:20 hours)

When visiting the Old Książ Castle in Wałbrzych, it is worth planning a full-day trip to explore the surrounding attractions related to the castle.

1. Palm House – The Pearl of Princess Daisy (One Ticket),
2. The Mysterious Książ Castle (One Ticket),
3. Cisy Castle – The Mysterious Gem of Lower Silesia,
4. Old Mine Science and Art Center (One Ticket),
5. Porcelain Museum (One Ticket),
6. Daisy Lake

If my article helped you plan your route and gather the necessary information, I would be grateful for your support in making my dreams come true by buying me a coffee!