Chrzelice Castle

Chrzelice Castle is a fortified structure in Poland with a distinctive cylindrical main tower and defensive walls that encompass the grounds through a gated entrance. A three-story residential building stands within these walls as the central dwelling of the complex.

The castle was founded in the first half of the 14th century by Opole princes as a defensive stronghold for the region. It sustained significant damage during military campaigns between 1428 and 1434 when Hussite forces passed through the area.

The site reflects how successive families transformed it from a military fortress into an aristocratic residence, each generation adapting the structure to their needs and tastes. You can still see these changes in the remaining walls and towers today.

The site is now a registered ruin and can be viewed from the exterior, though it is not a developed tourist destination with visitor facilities or guided tours. The driest months offer the most accessible conditions for exploring the grounds.

In the late 15th century, knights based themselves here to conduct raids across the surrounding region, prompting military expeditions by the Piast rulers of Opole to regain control. This episode reveals how the castle temporarily became a haven for independent military operations.