Ełk Castle, Medieval Teutonic fortress on Lake Ełckie, Poland
Ełk Castle is a rectangular fortress tower of Gothic design built from brick and stone, standing on a former settlement site near Lake Ełckie. The structure measures about 12 by 16.5 meters and displays thick walls typical of medieval military architecture.
The fortress was founded in 1398 by the Teutonic Knights under Ulrich von Jungingen, initially built with wooden structures on previously settled ground. It was later rebuilt with brick and stone to become a permanent military installation.
The name comes from the Teutonic Knights who built it as a regional stronghold centuries ago. Over time, locals knew it through its various roles, from fortress to detention facility, each leaving its mark on how people remember this building.
The castle is located at Zamkowa 1 in central Ełk and is easily reached on foot. Access is currently restricted due to poor maintenance, so visitors should check local information before planning a visit.
Excavations in the 1950s uncovered a hidden tunnel system beneath the walls that may have served as escape routes for inhabitants. This concealed infrastructure reveals the strategic thinking behind the original design.
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