Gniew Castle - Historic Fortress and Stylish Hotel

Martyna Ługowska

26.02.2025 1258

Gniew Castle is located in Poland in the Pomeranian Voivodeship. It is one of the most valuable and best preserved Gothic castles in Poland. Its history dates back to the 13th century, when it was built by the Teutonic Order. Since its construction, it has served various functions, from the seat of the Teutonic Order's commander to the place of the royal starosty. Today, Gniew Castle is a popular tourist destination that attracts lovers of history, architecture and culture.

History of Gniew Castle

The castle in Gniew was founded in 1290, and construction began around 1300. Built by the Teutonic Knights on behalf of the Grand Master of the Order, it was intended to secure this part of Pomerania and strengthen the Order's authority over the lands on the left bank of the Vistula.

The first phase of construction lasted until 1335, when the main part of the castle was completed, creating a quadrangular castle with a massive tower surrounded by high walls. In the following decades, the castle was expanded and transformed, especially in the 14th and 15th centuries, when the castle became one of the most important centers of the Teutonic Order in Pomerania. Partial reconstruction in the mid-15th century included, among others, bricking up the original entrance gate and building a new gate from the east, as well as enlarging the castle chapel.

The castle was the seat of royal starosts until the 17th century, when, after the Swedish wars and other attacks in Europe, the castle was partially destroyed. Nevertheless, over the centuries, it served an administrative, residential, and defensive role.

Castle architecture

Gniew Castle is an excellent example of medieval defensive architecture. It is a castle with a quadrangular plan, surrounded by a moat and reinforced with high walls. The central point of the castle is a large tower, from which there is a view of the Vistula and the surrounding area. The tower was not only a place of defense, but also served administrative and representative functions.

The castle has preserved many Gothic elements, and in its interior you can admire, among others, original vaults, stone stairs and fragments of medieval walls. Part of the castle has been transformed into a museum, which presents the history of the castle itself, as well as its role in the history of the region.

Gniew Castle today

Nowadays, Gniew Castle is not only an important tourist attraction, but also an educational and cultural centre. Lessons for schools, historical reenactments, and thematic events are organised here, which allow for a deeper understanding of the history of this extraordinary place. The castle is also a popular place for weddings, conferences, and other events. And did you know that Gniew Castle also offers accommodation? You can spend the night in a real castle!

Gniew Castle remains a living part of Pomerania's history, and its rich past and impressive architecture attract thousands of tourists every year. It is a place that combines history, culture, and tradition, giving visitors a unique opportunity to travel through time, full of fascinating discoveries.

This facility is gaining importance as a symbol of regional identity and a monument of medieval architecture. Gniew Castle not only tells history, but also creates new, contemporary traditions that attract tourists and history enthusiasts from all over the world.