The Teutonic castle in Nidzica is one of the best preserved and most impressive examples of Gothic defensive architecture in Poland. Erected between 1370 and 1400, it was the largest fortress on the Prussian-Masovian border. Its massive walls, rising more than 20 meters high, were surrounded by a deep moat, making it virtually impregnable. The castle has a regular quadrilateral plan with an inner courtyard, typical of Teutonic buildings. Particularly impressive is the three-kilometer-long defensive wall with two round towers, which testifies to the strategic importance of the place.

The history of Nidzica Castle is tumultuous - repeatedly destroyed and rebuilt, it has survived to our time as a testimony to the power of the Order. After the secularization of Prussia in 1525, it became the seat of the princely administration. During the Napoleonic wars in 1812 it was partially destroyed, but already in 1828 it was started to be rebuilt. Further restoration work was carried out after World War II, between 1961 and 1965. Today the castle houses a museum, a library and a hotel, making it not only a monument, but a lively cultural center of the region.

Nidzica Castle hides many secrets and legends. One of them tells of the hidden treasure of the Teutonic Knights, which is said to still lie somewhere in the vaults or around the fortress. Another legend tells of the ghost of a Teutonic commando, who strolls through the castle's corridors on moonless nights, guarding the order's ancient secrets. Visiting the castle is not only a history lesson, but also an opportunity to feel the atmosphere of the Middle Ages - the austere walls, narrow corridors and soaring windows transport us to distant times.

The castle ruins in Szczytno are another fascinating point on the map of Teutonic fortresses. Built in the 14th century, initially as a wooden watchtower, it was expanded over time to form a brick castle. Although today only fragments of the walls remain, the site is of great historical significance. It was here that Henryk Sienkiewicz placed the action of fragments of his novel 'Teutonic Knights', which contributed to the consolidation of the legend of this place in the consciousness of Poles.

Szczycieński castle witnessed many dramatic events - in 1410, after the Battle of Grunwald, it was captured by the Polish army. In the following centuries it changed hands many times, until it finally fell into ruin. Today, the remains of the castle are a picturesque part of the urban landscape and are a popular place for locals and tourists to stroll. During the summer season, historical reconstructions and medieval festivals are organized at the ruins, allowing visitors to feel the atmosphere of the old days.

The ruins of the castle in Kurzętnik, although less well-known than other fortresses of the region, are also worthy of attention. The castle was erected at the turn of the 13th and 14th centuries on a high hill above the Drwęca River, which gave it an excellent defensive position. Its strategic location on the border of the monastic state with Poland made it an important point in the defense system of the Teutonic Knights. In 1410, like many other Teutonic fortresses, it was captured by the armies of Wladyslaw Jagiello after the Battle of Grunwald.

The castle of the Bishops of Warmia in Jeziorany is a lesser-known but extremely interesting example of defense and residential architecture. Erected in the 14th century, it was one of the seats of the powerful bishops of Warmia, who exercised secular and spiritual power in the Warmia region for centuries. The Jeziorany castle, unlike typical Teutonic strongholds, combined defensive and representative functions, which can be seen in its architecture - less austere and more elegant.

The history of Jeziorany castle is closely connected with the history of Warmia. Over the centuries it has witnessed political intrigues, wars and changes of power. In the 16th century it hosted Nicolaus Copernicus himself, who, as a canon of Frombork, often traveled around Warmia, dealing with the administrative affairs of the diocese. The castle survived many turbulent events, including the Polish-Teutonic wars and the Swedish deluge, but over time it lost its importance. In the 19th century, part of the building was demolished and the rest was adapted for administrative purposes.

Today, the preserved parts of the castle are a valuable monument of Gothic architecture. It is worth noting the details characteristic of Warmian architecture - pointed portals, frescoes and vaults. Visiting the castle, you can feel the atmosphere of old Warmia - a land where Polish culture mixed with German influences, creating a unique cultural melting pot. Local legend has it that valuable bishop's books and documents were hidden in the castle's vaults to protect them from looting during the wars.

The Museum of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, located in the gothic castle of the Warmia Chapter, is a real treasure trove of knowledge about the region. The castle, built between 1346 and 1353, was the seat of the administrator of the chapter property, and its most famous resident was Nicolaus Copernicus, who served as administrator here between 1516 and 1521. It was in one of the castle's chambers that Copernicus conducted astronomical observations and worked on his groundbreaking work 'On the Revolutions of the Heavenly Spheres'.

Olsztyn castle impresses with its architecture - red brick, high windows characteristic of the Gothic period and soaring towers create a harmonious whole. Inside are exhibitions on the history, culture and nature of Warmia and Mazury. Particularly valuable are the collections of Gothic art, handicrafts and memorabilia related to Nicolaus Copernicus, including a unique astronomical plaque made with his own hands by the great astronomer. It is the only surviving astronomical instrument used by Copernicus, making it a priceless monument of world science.

The museum organizes numerous temporary exhibitions, educational workshops and cultural events, thanks to which the castle is bustling with life and attracts both history lovers and those looking for interesting leisure activities. For families with children there are special tours and interactive exhibitions that bring the history of the region to the youngest in an accessible way. Ticket prices are affordable, making the museum accessible to every budget.

Reszel Castle is a true gem of Gothic architecture, combining defensive and residential functions. Erected in the 14th century by the Teutonic Knights, from 1371 it became the property of the bishops of Warmia, who transformed it into an elegant residence. The castle impresses with its mass - massive red brick walls, a distinctive tower with a characteristic minaret-like finial added in the 19th century and a picturesque location on a hill above the Sajna River create an unforgettable view.

The history of Reszel Castle is rich in dramatic events. One of the most famous is the last witchcraft trial in Europe, which took place here in 1811. Barbara Zdunk, accused of setting fire to the town, was burned at the stake on the castle hill. Today, her story is one of the most famous legends associated with the castle, and some claim that the ghost of the unfortunate woman still haunts the castle's chambers.

Comparing the castles of Warmia and Mazury, one can see both similarities and differences based on their functions and history. Teutonic castles, such as the mighty stronghold in Nidzica or the ruins in Szczytno and Kurzętnik, are characterized by austere, military architecture with regular quadrangular plans and deep moats. Their main purpose was defense and demonstration of the Order's strength. Bishop's castles, on the other hand, such as those in Jeziorany, Olsztyn and Reszel, combined defensive and representative functions, as seen in their more refined architecture and richer interior design.

As far as the state of preservation is concerned, the best-looking castle is the one in Nidzica, which has retained an almost complete body and has been carefully restored. The castle in Reszel also impresses with its condition - although rebuilt many times, it has retained its Gothic character and is now used as a hotel and art gallery. The castle in Olsztyn, which houses the Museum of Warmia and Mazury, has been partially reconstructed, but has retained its authentic character. On the other hand, the castles in Szczytno and Kurzętnik have been preserved only as picturesque ruins, but this does not detract from their historical value and charm.

In terms of accessibility and tourist infrastructure, the best prepared are the castles in Olsztyn, Nidzica and Reszel. They offer professional service, marked tour routes and additional attractions such as exhibitions, workshops and cultural events. Olsztyn Castle stands out for its rich educational offer and most valuable museum collections, including unique memorabilia of Nicolaus Copernicus. Nidzica Castle offers the opportunity to stay overnight in historic interiors, a unique experience for history lovers. Reszel Castle, functioning as a hotel, allows for an even deeper immersion into the historical atmosphere - an overnight stay in the chambers where the bishops of Warmia once lived is a true trip back in time.

Admission prices to the castles vary, but are generally affordable. The cheapest is to visit the ruins in Szczytno and Kurzętnik, where admission is often free or symbolic. Castles in Olsztyn and Nidzica offer moderately priced tickets, with discounts for children, students and senior citizens. It is worth noting the days of free admission, which are organized several times a year, especially during national holidays and local cultural events.

When planning a trip along the trail of castles of Warmia and Mazury, it is worth remembering a few practical tips. First, the best time to visit is from late spring to early autumn, when the weather is favorable and all attractions are accessible. However, it is worth avoiding the peak tourist season (July-August), when castles are most crowded. Secondly, it is advisable to plan your visit as a multi-day trip, combining it with discovering other attractions of the region - picturesque lakes, historic churches or charming towns.

For photography enthusiasts, I especially recommend visiting castles at sunrise or sunset, when the light gives the Gothic walls a unique character. The castle in Nidzica and the ruins in Kurzętnik, located on hills, offer magnificent views of the countryside, which are grateful subjects for photographers. The castle in Reszel, on the other hand, with its picturesque riverside location, creates a romantic setting at any time of the year.

Warmian-Masurian castles are not only a history lesson, but also an opportunity for active recreation. Many of them organize reconstruction events, knightly tournaments or workshops of ancient crafts, which allow you to feel the atmosphere of the Middle Ages. For families with children, I particularly recommend the castle in Olsztyn, where interactive exhibitions and special educational programs bring history closer in an accessible way. In turn, lovers of legends and mysteries should definitely visit the castle in Reszel, where stories about Barbara Zdunk and other historical figures fire the imagination.

The castles of Warmia and Mazury are not only testimonies to the turbulent history of the region, but also places where the past meets the present. Each of them has its own unique atmosphere and story worth exploring. Whether you are a lover of history, architecture, legends or simply beautiful views, Warmian-Masurian castles offer unforgettable experiences and inspire you to discover the fascinating history of this land.