Nowy Dwór Castle

Nowy Dwór Castle, formerly called Ogorzelec Castle, is the historic ruins of a stronghold in the Wałbrzych Mountains, in the south-eastern part of the Central Sudetes, within the city of Wałbrzych.

Origin and defensive role

The fortification was probably built at the turn of the 13th and 14th centuries on Zamkowa Góra, on the order of Duke Bolko I of Świdnica. Together with Rogowiec Castle and Radosno Castle, it formed part of the fortified border of the Duchy of Świdnica and guarded the trade route leading to Wałbrzych.

The end of the stronghold

In 1581 a fire damaged the castle badly enough that its owners at the time, the Czettritz family, abandoned the seat. After the Thirty Years' War, in the 17th century, the stronghold was permanently abandoned and fell into ruin.

What remains of the castle

Fragments of the walls of the outer bailey and the upper castle have survived, along with a Gothic gate portal. The castle is listed in the register of immovable monuments.

Nearby

On the same elevation lies the summit of Zamkowa Góra.

In Wałbrzych it is also worth visiting the Stara Kopalnia Centre of Science and Art.

Practical information

• Address: Zamkowa Góra, Nowy Dom Street, Wałbrzych
• Access: yellow tourist trail, starting at Wałbrzych Główny railway station, the walk to the ruins takes about 30 minutes
• Hilly terrain, the ruins stand in a forest, comfortable footwear recommended