Racibórz Castle, Gothic castle in Racibórz, Poland
Racibórz Castle is a medieval fortress built on a hilltop with defensive walls, a chapel, and a brewery complex within its grounds. The structure combines stone and brick defensive elements arranged across the elevated terrain.
The fortress began transforming from wooden structures into stone and brick constructions starting in 1250, marking a shift to more permanent defenses. This change reflected growing regional stability and the ability to invest in lasting fortifications.
The Gothic chapel dedicated to Saint Thomas Becket shows the skilled craftsmanship of medieval Upper Silesian builders in every detail. The space feels intimate and visitors can see the care taken in its construction from centuries ago.
The castle is best reached on foot via the sloped pathway leading up to the hilltop, located about a ten minute walk from the town center. Wear sturdy shoes, as the ground is uneven and can be slippery when wet.
The castle housed a mint that produced medieval coins called bracteates bearing the inscription MILOST, representing one of the earliest uses of the Polish language on coinage. These rare coins reveal how local identity and currency were intertwined during this period.
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