Moszna Castle – Where Fairytale Towers Meet Eclectic Charm – Explore the World with Explorers Almanac

The Moszna Castle is a historic castle and palace located in the small village of Moszna, in southwestern Poland. The castle itself is a Baroque masterpiece, but its architectural details and decorations reveal influences from other periods as well, including elements reminiscent of Elizabethan era residences.

Construction of the castle began in the 17th century, but it wasn’t until the 19th century that the Tiele-Winckler family, who acquired the estate in 1866, embarked on a massive expansion and renovation project that gave the castle its present-day fairytale-like appearance. The most famous addition from this period is the 99 towers that adorn the castle, though according to legend there are actually 100 towers, but one is hidden so well that no one can find it! Whether there truly are 99 or 100 towers, they along with the 365 rooms – one for every day of the year – contribute to the castle’s whimsical charm.

Today, the Moszna Castle is a popular tourist destination. Visitors can explore the castle’s many rooms, some of which are open to the public and retain their historic grandeur. The castle grounds are also extensive and include a beautiful park with old oak and lime trees, perfect for a leisurely stroll. You can even stay overnight in the castle, as it offers guest rooms and a restaurant.

Moszna Castle, with its whimsical architecture and long history, has spawned a number of fascinating legends:

The Hidden 100th Tower: The most famous legend claims there are actually 100 towers on the castle, not just 99. The story goes that if the owner had built 100 towers, they would have been obligated to maintain a military garrison – a costly affair. So, one tower was cleverly disguised to avoid reaching that number. Visitors love searching for this hidden gem, although its existence remains a delightful mystery.
The Ghostly Countess: Another legend whispers of a ghost who haunts the halls of Moszna. Some say it’s the spirit of a young countess who died tragically within the castle walls. Visitors report strange noises and fleeting glimpses of a spectral figure, adding to the castle’s mystique.
The Talking Trees: The beautiful park surrounding the castle is also not without its legend. Some believe the old oak and lime trees hold secrets within their ancient branches. Perhaps they whisper tales of the castle’s past or hold knowledge of the hidden tower’s location.

These are just a few of the legends that add to the allure of Moszna Castle. Whether fact or fiction, they spark the imagination and make the castle an even more captivating place to visit.

Moszna Castle offers different tickets depending on what you want to see:

Visiting the chambers + entry to the park: This is the most popular option and allows you to explore the castle’s most beautiful rooms with a guided tour (available in English). Tickets cost PLN 38 (regular) and PLN 24 (reduced).
Admission to the park only: If you’re on a budget or just interested in strolling through the lovely grounds, you can purchase a park entrance ticket. These cost PLN 16 (regular) and PLN 10 (reduced) from April to October, and are free from November to March.
‘Daily Life in the Castle’ + admission to the park: This special tour offers a unique glimpse into what life was like for the castle’s inhabitants. Tickets cost PLN 74 (regular) and PLN 56 (reduced), but reservations are required in advance.

The Moszna Castle is open every day from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. However, the last entry for the “Daily Life in the Castle” tour is at 5:30 PM, and the chambers close at 6:00 PM. It’s always a good idea to check the castle’s website before your visit for any updates on hours or special closures. The Moszna Castle website likely has a section on accommodations or guest rooms where you can find rates and book a stay.

There are a few ways to get to Moszna Castle in general, depending on your location and preferences:

By Car: This is the most flexible option, allowing you to explore the Polish countryside at your own pace. Moszna Castle is easily accessible from major cities in Poland:

From Wrocław: The drive from Wrocław to Moszna Castle is about 1.5 hours and covers roughly 125 kilometers. You can take the A4 motorway for most of the journey.
From Krakow: The drive from Krakow to Moszna Castle is a bit longer, taking about 2.5 hours and covering roughly 185 kilometers. You can take the A4 motorway for part of the trip, but there will be some regional roads as well.
From Katowice: Similar to Krakow, the drive from Katowice to Moszna Castle takes about 1.5 hours and covers roughly 114 kilometers. You can take the A4 motorway for most of the way.

By Public Transportation: Traveling by public transportation is also an option, though it will require more transfers and might take longer than driving. Trains and buses connect Moszna Castle to major Polish cities:

Trains: There are no direct train connections to Moszna Castle. However, you can take a train to a nearby town like Opole or Kluczbork, and then a bus or taxi to the castle.
Buses: There are also no direct bus connections from most major cities to Moszna Castle. However, you might be able to find connections with one or two transfers, depending on your starting point.

By Private Guided Tour: If you prefer a hassle-free experience, you can book a private guided tour to Moszna Castle from major Polish cities like Krakow, Wroclaw, or Katowice. These tours typically include transportation, entrance fees, and a guided tour of the castle.

Moszna Castle is a dreamlike destination for many. Fans of fairytales will be enchanted by its towers and spires, history buffs can delve into its centuries-old story, and architecture enthusiasts will appreciate the unique blend of styles. Even nature lovers can find solace in the surrounding park, and luxury seekers can stay overnight within the castle walls. Whether you have a particular interest or simply crave a captivating escape, Moszna Castle promises a memorable experience.