Castles

Rydzyna Castle

Rydzyna Castle is a Baroque residence of the Leszczyński and Sułkowski families, built on the walls of a Gothic castle from the early 15th century. Together with its moat, park, outbuildings and the town’s historic layout, it forms one of the most valuable residential and urban complexes in Greater Poland.

History and architecture

The Baroque castle was built at the end of the 17th century to designs by Józef Szymon Bellotti and Pompeo Ferrari. King Stanisław Leszczyński lived here from 1705 to 1709. In 1738, Aleksander Józef Sułkowski acquired the residence, and his successors expanded and organised the complex as a representative seat. The castle burned in 1945; reconstruction and the recreation of the interiors were completed in 1989. The restoration received a Europa Nostra award in 1994.

What to see

Highlights include the ceremonial courtyard, Baroque state rooms, stucco decoration and frescoes recreated from surviving documentation. Walk around the castle to see the bridge, moat, outbuildings and park, and notice the planned axes linking the residence with the market square and the town’s buildings. Rydzyna’s residential and urban complex has the status of a Historic Monument of Poland.

Practical information

The castle stands at 1 Zamkowy Square in Rydzyna. It is used for accommodation, meetings and events, while the historic interiors are open to visitors. The official website publishes visiting hours but warns that events can change access; check the latest notice before travelling and contact reception, especially at weekends.