Barwałd Castle, Medieval castle ruins in Barwałd Górny, Poland
Barwałd Castle consists of ruins situated on Mount Żar, where stone foundations and the remnants of defensive walls can still be seen. The site preserves traces of a protective moat that once surrounded the fortification.
The fortress was built in the mid-14th century to guard the eastern border of the Duchy of Oświęcim. It served a strategic purpose against threats and incursions from the Bohemian lands.
The Skrzyński family, who controlled the castle in 1440, maintained connections with other regional fortresses including Żywiec while operating as vassals of the Oświęcim dukes.
The approach from near the Kalwaria Zebrzydowska monastery is marked by a blue hiking trail that continues along the ridge. Trail conditions vary with seasons and weather, so sturdy footwear and preparation for outdoor conditions are recommended.
Stones from the demolished fortification were reused in 1616 to construct a small chapel located on the same mountain. This transformation shows how a defensive structure's material found new purpose in religious architecture.
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