Facts and Data
Webpages:
Official Unesco Page
Castles and Palaces of Poland - Malbork (Poland.Net Agency)
Malbork (Polish National Tourist Office)
Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 1997
Size of heritage: 18 ha
Coordinates:
Longitude: 19,033°
Latitude: 54,042°
Summary
This 13th-century fortified monastery belonging to the Teutonic Order was substantially enlarged and embellished after 1309, when the seat of the Grand Master moved here from Venice. A particularly fine example of a medieval brick castle, it later fell into decay, but was meticulously restored in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Many of the conservation techniques now accepted as standard were evolved here. Following severe damage in the Second World War it was once again restored, using the detailed documentation prepared by earlier conservators.
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Castle of the Teutonic Order in Malbork
The Castle of the Teutonic Order in Malbork, located in the City and County of Malbork in the Pomeranian Voivodship of Poland, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. This magnificent fortress is one of the largest brick castles in the world and stands as a testament to the power and influence of the Teutonic Order during the medieval period.
History
The construction of the castle began in 1274 when the Teutonic Knights, a Germanic religious order, decided to establish their headquarters in the region. Over the next several decades, the castle complex grew in size and grandeur, becoming the seat of the Grand Master of the Teutonic Order.
During the 14th and 15th centuries, the castle played a crucial role in the Teutonic Knights' efforts to expand their influence in the Baltic region. It served as a military stronghold, a center of administration, and a symbol of the order's authority. The castle's strategic location on the Nogat River made it an important trading hub and a formidable defensive structure.
In 1457, the castle was captured by the Polish army during the Thirteen Years' War. It was then transformed into a royal residence and underwent significant renovations. Over the centuries, the castle changed hands multiple times, experiencing periods of neglect and destruction. However, extensive restoration efforts in the 19th and 20th centuries have preserved its architectural splendor.
Current State
Today, the Castle of the Teutonic Order in Malbork stands as a remarkable example of medieval architecture and is a major tourist attraction in Poland. The castle complex covers an area of approximately 21 hectares and consists of three main sections: the High Castle, the Middle Castle, and the Low Castle.
The High Castle, located at the western end of the complex, is the oldest part of the castle and served as the residence of the Grand Master. It features impressive defensive walls, towers, and a grand hall known as the Great Refectory. The Middle Castle, situated in the central part, housed the administrative offices and the chapel. The Low Castle, located to the east, served as the economic center of the castle, with granaries, stables, and workshops.
Visitors to the castle can explore its numerous chambers, courtyards, and exhibitions that showcase the history and culture of the Teutonic Order. The castle also houses the Museum of the Castle in Malbork, which displays a vast collection of medieval artifacts, including weaponry, armor, and religious objects.
The Castle of the Teutonic Order in Malbork is not only a remarkable architectural masterpiece but also a symbol of the complex history of the region. Its inclusion on the UNESCO World Heritage list ensures its preservation for future generations to appreciate and learn from.
Hotels and places to stay
Grot
Centrum Malbork
Zajazd Groblanka
Piast Hotel
Hotel Dedal
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