Grodziec

The first confirmed reference to Grodziec comes from Pope Hadrian IV in 1155. Grodziec is one of the most beautiful Gothic-Renaissance residence in Silesia. In the time of 30-years war the castle was captured and burned by the forces of prince Albrecht Wallenstein. Because the war damage was on a huge scale and the fortress had no some parts of the stronghold. In the XVII and XVIII c. efforts were made to rebuild Grodziec, however they were not finished with greater success. Only just in 1800 y., when the owner of property became prince of the Reich Jan Henryk IV von Hochburg from Ksiaz, more serious work of preservation and reconstruction was take up.

The period of Napoleon Campaign stopped it for a little while, but already in the 30-ties of XIX c. the castle became an object of many tourist excursions. In this time it had the reputation of beging the first in Europe historical building particularly accommodated for tourist goals.

Thorough reconstruction was started in 1900 y., when the owner of property became baron dr Wilibald von Dirksen. He ordered elaboration of the design and supervision of work to the most-know and respected architect and conservator – Bodo Ebhardt. In 1908 y. Emporor Wilhelm II was here as a gust during the solemn opening of the object; later it was transferred to Silesian Society of History and Antiquarianism Lovers for a museum, a restaurant and a shelter-home. In 1945 y. the castle with the part of equipment was burnt.

http://www.grodziec.com/