Kalisz Stronghold of the Piasts

In the Zawodzie district, beside a former arm of the Prosna river, stands the Kalisz Stronghold of the Piasts — an archaeological reserve opened in 2007 on the site of an early-medieval fortress whose beginnings reach back to the 9th century. Some historians believe that here, rather than on Wawel Hill, one of the main centres of the first Piasts' state should be sought.

What you will see inside

Timber cottages from the 12th–13th centuries have been reconstructed — the Warrior's hut, the Senior's hut and a tavern — along with the outlines of the Romanesque collegiate church of St Paul from the 12th century, founded by Mieszko III the Old, who was buried there with his son Mieszko Mieszkowic. The site also features a barrow, a scale model of the stronghold, a wooden church of St Adalbert and a 19th-century cottage, plus a small farmyard of animals popular with children.

Kalisz before Mieszko I

Archaeological layers from the tribal era to the Piast period explain the reconstruction. Today it is an important stop on the Piast Trail and a highlight of a visit to Kalisz.

In practice

The reserve operates at Bolesława Pobożnego street 87–105 (Zawodzie). The season runs from 15 April to 31 October: Tue, Wed and Fri 10:00–15:30, Thu, Sat and Sun 10:00–18:00, closed Mondays. Tickets: PLN 7 regular, PLN 5 reduced, family PLN 12; Sundays free. Before visiting, check current opening hours, ticket prices and event dates on the website of the District Museum of the Kalisz Region, as the offer may change seasonally.