Malbork Castle – The Largest Castle in the World

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The tallest structure in Poland is also a massive medieval fortress that towers over the country’s capital city, Warsaw. It was built by order of King Kazimierz II Jagiellonczyk as an impregnable defense against invading forces during the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth period (15th century). Malbork Castle has been referred to, as “the finest example of Renaissance architecture”, in Europe.

Today, there are many things you can see at this stunning site — including its impressive fortifications, numerous museums and other attractions. But why should we visit Malbork Castle itself when there are so many other places to go? Read on for our guide to the

Why is Malbork Castle famous?

Malbork Castle became known throughout Europe after being featured in Jules Verne’s 1863 novel Journey Around the Moon. This popular book inspired generations of readers to travel from all across the globe to explore the mysterious moon. And now, more than 150 years later, visitors still flock to Malbork Castle from around the world to experience the magic of space exploration firsthand.

In addition to being one of the most visited tourist destinations in Poland, the castle also attracts thousands of students each year who come to study and learn about the history of Eastern European countries.

Who lived in Malbork Castle?

Anna Bona Sforza
Image Source: https://www.ancient-origins.net/

King Kazimir II Jagiello married Anna Bona Sforza, daughter of Ludovico il Moro, ruler of Milan, Italy, in 1497. He moved his court to Malbork in 1501 with his new bride because he wanted her father’s protection against possible attacks from neighboring nations. The couple had three children together: Wladyslaw III, Janusz and Barbara. Anna died of smallpox in 1512, leaving only two surviving children. Wladyslaw inherited the throne, but he soon fell ill and died in 1532. His son Janusz succeeded him, ruling until his death in 1572.

King Kazimir II Jagiello
Image Source: https://www.wikiart.org

Janusz left no heirs, so his brother Sigismund I Vasa ascended the Polish throne in 1587. With the help of the influential astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus, the king decided to build a magnificent palace in honor of his wife Catherine of Austria, who was considered one of the greatest women in the 16th century. As part of their marriage contract, she received several castles, including Malbork.

After Janusz’s death, his sister Barbara ruled briefly before her son Casimir IV assumed control in 1648. In 1668, the last male member of the Jagiello dynasty died without an heir, ending the line of Polands rulers. Since then, the castle has served various purposes including a military barracks, prison and even a summer resort hotel!

How do I get to Malbork?

Image Source: https://www.earthtrekkers.com

To reach Malbork Castle, you must first take a bus or train from Warsaw to Gostyń station. From here, you’ll hop on another train bound for Ostrów Mazowiecka. You will disembark at the main station where you can catch a taxi directly to the castle gates. Be sure to tip your driver generously if they drive you through the winding roads leading up to the castle.

From the castle, you have access to many different tours and activities. There are guided tours available every day between 9am and 5pm, which include free admission to the castle museum. Tours cost $10 per person, though some offer discounts based on group size. If you’re traveling with kids, be sure to check out the interactive Children’s Museum located inside the castle walls. Admission costs $3.50 per child.

There are also plenty of self-guided walking tours available. For instance, you could follow the route taken by the famous explorer Marco Polo on his journey to China. Or, if you want to try something a little bit less adventurous, you might opt to tour the grounds via horseback. Horse rentals start at $25 per hour.

Is Malbork worth visiting?

The Largest Castle in the World
Image Source: https://www.pinterest.com

If you’ve never seen a castle before, Malbork may not seem like much fun. However, once you step foot onto the grounds, you quickly realize how beautiful and peaceful the area really is. The surrounding forests create a natural setting perfect for hiking and picnicking.

But if you plan to spend any time exploring the grounds, make sure to bring water and sunscreen. During warm weather months, temperatures can soar well into the 90s Fahrenheit (32 degrees Celsius), making it difficult to stay cool. As such, you should avoid wearing cotton clothing since it tends to absorb sweat very easily. Instead, stick to light fabrics made of polyester or nylon. Also, don’t forget to pack insect repellent. Mosquitoes tend to swarm these parts of Poland after dark.

Another thing to keep in mind is that the castle is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. So while it doesn’t look like anyone lives here, you shouldn’t feel too threatened by strangers asking for money. They aren’t trying to rob you, just ask them to leave you alone.

Who is the owner of Malbork Castle?

Poland currently belongs to the United Kingdom, but the UK hasn’t always owned the land. In fact, the first British monarch to rule over this territory was Elizabeth I, Queen of England. She took ownership of the region following the defeat of Polish King John Sobieski in the Battle of Vienna in 1683. At the time, Poland was under foreign occupation.

Elizabeth granted the lands to her cousin Frederick William of Prussia, who eventually passed them down to her grandson George II, Elector of Hanover. Today, the royal family continues to own the property through the House of Hanover.

While the castle was originally constructed as a residence for the Jagiellos, it wasn’t used as a home until the early 20th century. After that, it was converted to a military base and garrison. Then, in 1939, it was handed back to the monarchy.

Among the most recent owners of the Malbork Castle, was Princess Maria Teresa Rafaela of Bourbon Parma, however, she has passed away on March 26, 2020. The current owner is, The National Heritage Board of Poland.

Malbork Castle is situated near the town of Ostrów Mazowiecka, which lies approximately 50 miles east of Warsaw, Poland. Its exact location is 43°51’49″N 19°30’53″E. According to legend, the castle sits atop a hill named Zamek (“castle”). Some historians suggest that Zamek isn’t actually a hill, but rather a mound created by human activity. Either way, the castle does sit upon a large hill overlooking the river Bug River.

In Conclusion

in conclusion

Malbork Castle is the largest castle in the world. It’s so large, in fact, that it’s actually three times the size of the Vatican City. This Polish fortress was originally built in 1274 and has been added to and remodeled over the years, making it one of the most impressive castles in Europe. If you’re looking for an amazing day trip or vacation spot, be sure to add Malbork Castle to your list- you won’t regret it! 

Malbork Castle is famous because it is not only the largest castle in the world but also because it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The fortress has stood since 1274 and been witness to many important moments in Polish history. So now it’s YOUR turn to be a witness of it!

Happy travels.

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