Malbork Castle
Marienburg Castle is a classic example of a medieval Gothic fortress, one of the best in Europe, the largest brick castle in the world. Together with a complex system of defensive walls, gates and towers, it occupies an area of 32 hectares. This medieval fortress looks impregnable. The huge red brick castle with towers, drawbridges and strong walls rises above the surrounding plain. Marienburg Castle was the residence of the leader of the Teutonic Knights, the Grand Master. The castle is located in Malbork on the Nogat River, a tributary of the Vistula River, about 58 km south-east of Gdańsk and 250 km from Warsaw.
General information
Marienburg Castle was built in 1276, and in 1309 became the residence of the Grand Master of the Teutonic Order. During World War II it was the site of the Stalag XXB prisoner of war camp, but the castle has since been restored. Inside the castle is a real labyrinth of seemingly endless series of rooms and chapels. It is divided into three parts: the oldest part with a rectangular high castle and a courtyard with arches, which housed the refectory, chapter hall, treasury and the chapel of St. Mary. In the XIV century the old fortress became the Middle Castle, which housed the Great Refectory, the Knights’ Hall and the palace of the Master himself. In the Lower Castle were the arsenal and the church of St. Lawrence. Even after the defeat and withdrawal of the Teutonic Order, the castle was not destroyed. It became the residence of Polish monarchs.
.There are several exhibitions in the premises of Marienburg Castle, there is a permanent exhibition on the history of the castle, as well as collections of medieval sculpture, stained glass, coins, medals, weapons, wrought iron, ceramics, tapestries and a priceless collection of amber. In the summer, a “Sound and Light” show is held in the courtyards of the castle.”
.Guided tours only, although some parts of the complex can be explored on your own. Getting to Malbork is easy. It takes 40 minutes by train from the main train station in Gdansk by express train and one hour by regular train. From the town of Malbork to the castle is a 10 minute walk. This impressive journey is well worth the time spent.
.Tel: 55 647 0800; www.zamek.malbork.pl; adult/discounted ticket 37/27zt; 09.00-19.00 on Tuesdays from May to August, 10.00-17.00 on Tuesdays April and September, 10.00-15.00 on Tuesdays from October to March.
.The ticket price includes compulsory participation in the Polish-language tour with an audio guide in Russian and other languages (headphones are available in the stall near the entrance to the castle). On Mondays special offer – a limited number of excursions for 8zl.
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