OJCOWSKI NATIONAL PARK - OJCÓW CASTLE


  The name - Ojców, according to a legend (and perhaps the truth) was given by the king Casimir the Great. The king wished to memorise his father, who some years earlier hide himself in a cave before Czech knights. In Polish 'ojciec' means 'father'. Today's castle, indeed was erected by the king Casimir, however, there are archaeological exclavations that some wooden fortification existed here before.
  About existing some fortification at least in 13th century one can deduct by analyse of the then political situation. Nearby there was a border between Poland and Silesia. Emperors, to protect the country, had to erect dozen castles along the frontier. Indeed, the castles existed, some of them, however in ruins, exist today.
  Emperors were establishing clerical posts, first known by name is Zaklika. In 1655 the castle lost position, it was atacked by Swedish and conquered. After the war with Sweden the castle was bought by Stafan Kocyciński who added renecance chambers. Soon, Koryciński died and the castle fall into ruins.
  In the end of 18th century Poland lost independence. In 1829 Russians sold the castle to Konstanty Wolicki who pulled down most of the buildings. He saved only entrance gate and wall around the castle. Today the castle has status so called permanent ruin and is often visited by tourists comming to the Ojcowski National Park.