Gallows in Złoty Stok

The gallows in Złoty Stok is a structure that no longer exists today, of which only archaeological traces remain. The site where it stood is now marked by a replica of the cross that was formerly erected by gallows for the condemned.

Built with the duke's permission

The stone gallows was erected in 1558, under a permit granted by Duke Ernest of Bavaria. It probably replaced an earlier wooden structure. It consisted of a brick cylindrical shaft about 2.5 metres high and about four metres in diameter, and three connected posts which together reached five metres in height. The structure was renovated in 1740.

A place of execution

The gallows served as a site for carrying out death sentences for several centuries. Beside it stood a cross known as the Galgenkreuz, at which the condemned could pray before execution.

Demolition and discovery in the 21st century

The gallows was demolished in 1831, when methods of carrying out punishments changed. Its remains were not discovered until 2010, during conservation work. The town authorities considered reconstructing the structure as a tourist attraction, but the idea was abandoned in 2016 due to lack of funds. Today the site is marked by a replica of the Galgenkreuz cross. Nearby, also in Złoty Stok, are the Gold Mine in Złoty Stok and the Ochre Adit.

Practical information

• Address: near the centre of Złoty Stok, Ząbkowice County
• What to expect: no physical structure, only a replica of the Galgenkreuz cross stands on the site
• Nearby: Cross Hill with the Chapel of St Anne