Niedzica Castle — a Gothic-Renaissance stronghold above Lake Czorsztyn

History and legends

The castle was raised at the start of the 14th century as a Hungarian frontier stronghold, guarding the border between the Kingdom of Hungary (Spisz) and Poland. It remained in Hungarian hands until 1920, when Spisz was divided between Poland and Czechoslovakia. A famous legend attaches to it — in 1797 a descendant of the Inca line of Túpac Amaru is said to have died here, and his „Inca testament” to have been hidden in the walls.

What to see

• The upper castle — Gothic rooms of the 14th century
• The middle and lower castle — Renaissance extensions of the 16th and 17th centuries
• The museum — a collection of historic furniture, arms and Spisz mementoes
• The viewing terrace — a panorama of the reservoir and Czorsztyn castle

Practical notes

The castle stands on the southern shore of Lake Czorsztyn, in the village of Niedzica-Zamek. Admission is ticketed and it is open all year. In summer a boat crosses to Czorsztyn castle on the far shore. There is parking, places to eat and souvenir shops on site.

How to get there and practical info

Location

Niedzica-Zamek, the southern shore of Lake Czorsztyn

Admission

Ticketed, open all year

Built by

Originally Hungarian (Spisz), 14th century

Managed by

The Niedzica Castle Foundation

Nearby

Czorsztyn castle (by boat), the Niedzica dam

Time needed

1.5–2 hours

When to go