Exploring the Underground City: mysteries of the Riese Complex in the Owl Mountains

Exploring the Underground City: mysteries of the Riese Complex in the Owl Mountains

June 11, 2025

In the heart of the Owl Mountains, hidden underground, is one of the most fascinating and mysterious places in Poland - the Riese Complex. It is a vast system of underground tunnels and chambers, the purpose of which remains a mystery to this day. We invite you on an extraordinary journey into the depths of history, where we will discover the secrets of this monumental World War II project. The Walim drifts, part of the Riese complex, offer an unforgettable experience for the whole family, combining historical education with adventure and thrill.

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Walim's Salt Pits - the Gateway to the Underground World

The Walim drifts, located in the picturesque town of Walim at 26 3 Maja Street, are one of the seven complexes of the mysterious Riese project. To reach this fascinating place, it is best to use a car, as public transportation in the area is limited. Free parking awaits you on site, which makes planning your trip much easier.

The site is open to visitors all year round, but it is worth remembering to dress appropriately - there is a constant temperature of about 5-7°C in the adits, regardless of the season. The tourist route is about 500 meters long and is fully equipped for safe touring. However, it is worth noting that due to the nature of the site, it is not fully accessible to people with limited mobility.

Entrance tickets cost 35 zloty per adult, with the possibility of purchasing discounted tickets. These prices were revised in May 2023, but it is always a good idea to check updated information on the official website of the site before planning a visit.

The Walim drifts are not just dry historical facts - it's a real trip back in time. The tour route has been enhanced with impressive audiovisual effects that take visitors back to the dark times of World War II. You will hear the conversations of prisoners and their guards, the barking of dogs, and even witness a staged escape attempt. These elements make history tangible and extremely exciting, especially for younger visitors.

History and Mysteries of the Riese Complex

The Riese Complex, whose name in German means 'Giant,' is one of the most intriguing projects of the Third Reich. Construction of this gigantic system of underground tunnels and chambers began in 1943 and continued until the end of the war. To this day, the exact purpose of this massive undertaking is unknown - theories range from underground weapons factories to Hitler's secret quarters.

The Walim drifts, also known as the 'Rzeczka' complex, were opened to the public in 1995. Since then, the site has continually attracted tourists and history enthusiasts from all over Poland and abroad. During the tour, you can see not only the rough, rock-cut corridors, but also learn about the tragic history of their creation.

One of the most moving elements of the exhibition are the graphics of Hungarian painter Imre Holló, a former prisoner of the 'Rzeczka' camp. These poignant paintings, created on pieces of cardboard, are a harrowing testimony to the conditions under which the prisoners who built the complex worked and died.

For families with children, a visit to the Walim Adits can be an extraordinary history lesson. It is worth noting, however, that due to the low temperature and loud sound effects in places, the site may not be suitable for very young children. For older children and teenagers, it will certainly be an unforgettable experience, combining learning with adventure.

Before visiting, it is a good idea to learn some basic information about the history of World War II in Poland, which will give you a better understanding of the context in which the Riese complex was built. You can also purchase souvenirs and books on the subject of the Owl Mountains and the mysterious underground, which can be a great supplement to the knowledge gained during the tour.

Schedule your visit and nearby attractions

When planning a visit to the Walim Adits, it is worth reserving at least 2-3 hours for a leisurely tour and possible shopping in the souvenir store. The tour takes place in groups with a guide, and the duration of the tour is about an hour. The guides are history enthusiasts who enthusiastically share their knowledge, which means that even the most demanding tourists will be satisfied.

For those who want to explore the Riese complex in more depth, we recommend visiting other sites in the area. Nearby sites include the Osowka Adit in Gluszyca and the Osowka Underground City, which are also part of this mysterious project. It is worth considering buying a combined ticket, which allows you to visit several sites at a more favorable price.

The Sowie Mountains are not only about underground mysteries. The region offers many attractions for lovers of nature and active recreation. There are numerous hiking trails in the area, including a route to the highest peak of the Owl Mountains - Great Owl (1015 meters above sea level). There is an observation tower on the summit, which offers a beautiful panorama of the Sudetenland.

For families with children, a visit to the 'Sowa' Rope Park in Rzeczka, located a few kilometers from the Walimskie Adits, may be an interesting option. It's a great place to de-stress after an intense underground tour.

If you are planning a longer stay in the area, consider staying overnight in one of the nearby guesthouses or agritourism farms. This will allow you to explore quietly without rushing and take full advantage of the charms of the region.

In conclusion, the Walim drifts and the entire Riese complex is a place that combines history, mystery and adventure. It is an excellent destination for families with school-age children, history enthusiasts and anyone who wants to discover one of the most intriguing places in Poland. Keep in mind, however, that despite its fascinating setting, the site is also a testament to tragic history and human suffering. A visit here is not only a tourist attraction, but above all a history lesson and a tribute to those who lost their lives here during World War II.

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