Above the surface of Lake Czorsztyńskie in Niedzica rises the Dunajec Castle. Its location on a high rock of over five hundred meters makes it one of the mostpicturesque buildings of this type in Poland. Opposite it, on the other side of the lagoon, you can see the ruins of Czorsztyn Castle. The fortresses, although located so close to each other, have completely different histories, which are also related to their current state of preservation. Niedzica castle was inhabited continuously until World War II, and thus has survived to our days in practically intact condition. Already in the 13th century there was a fortified castle on a hill above the Dunajec River. In the 14th century, the existence of Dunajec Castle, belonging to the Hungarian Berzeviczy family, is first mentioned here. As a border fortress, it was repeatedly invaded and besieged. It fell into Polish hands in the early 16th century when Jan Zapolya gave it to Hieronim Łaski. He and his son Olbracht farmed here for several decades, until, as a result of impoverishment, they had to mortgage and then sell the Niedzice estate. The purchasers were the Horvath family, which ruled here until the mid-19th century. This was a very oppressive reign for the local population, who were severely oppressed by the owners. The reforms of the Spring of Nations or the relaxation of serfdom obligations did not reach here. The Horvaths' successors, the Solomons, maintained serfdom until 1929. The last owner of the castle in 1943 finally left Niedzica and moved to Budapest. The stronghold consists of a lower and upper castle. The lower one formerly provided facilities for servants and outbuildings. The upper castle, on the other hand, housed the owners and housed the armory. The defensive character was provided by high walls, towers and towers. In the 19th century a heavy prison was established in the upper castle, where unruly peasants refusing to fulfill their corvée duties and rebels were sent. Courts were also held here, which, according to accounts, handed down very harsh sentences. Today Dunajec Castle is one of the most important tourist attractions in the area. It is open to the public.
rec***** - 02.07.2018
