Bolczów Castle (German: Bolzenschloss) are the ruins of a 14th-century castle, for the construction of which - e.g. n. as walls - naturally occurring granite rocks were used. The castle is located in the village of Janowice Wielkie, about 15 km from Jelenia Góra.
Bolczów Castle is one of the biggest attractions of Janowice Wielkie. It is part of the Jelenia Góra Valley Cultural Park and has a convenient location for sightseeing. There are plenty of interesting places around, such as: Rudawski Landscape Park, Colorful little lakes or Ciechanowice Palace. The stronghold is part of the Piast Castles Trail, which is 152 km long in total.
The foundation of the castle dates back to 1375. However, the stronghold has a turbulent history behind it, because already in the mid-15th century Bolczów Castle suffered as a result of fights between the Hussites and the townspeople of Wrocław and Świdnica. It has been rebuilt many times over the years. It lasted until its decline in 1645, when the Swedes set it on fire. Since then, the castle has not been rebuilt in its full glory. In the meantime, it served as an inn and a tourist hostel. Today, he is not adapted to any of these roles. Currently, the castle is managed by the State Forests, and more specifically by the Śnieżka Forest District.
To build Bolczów Castle granite rocks naturally occurring in this area were used, which were integrated into its architecture. Although only ruins remain of the castle today, reminding of its former glory, the building picturesquely blends into the surrounding landscape and is worth visiting. Nowadays, we can admire the remains of the former barbican, bastion, well or a series of perimeter walls.
Bolczów Castle - information for tourists
Down Bolczów Castle you can only get there on foot, but you have to be prepared for the approach, because the stronghold is located at an altitude of 561 m above sea level. From the center of Janowice Wielkie - about 50 minutes on foot, also along the green trail. Bolczów Castle there are no access restrictions and no entrance fees, so all adventurous people can admire it even at night.