Ruiny Zamku w Melsztynie

A gem on the map of the Microregion Pogórze is the Ruins of the Castle in Melsztyn, situated on a hill overlooking the Dunajec River. It is a place full of history that will enchant history enthusiasts.

In the Gothic times, in 1347, the castellan of Krakow, Spicymir Leliwa, began the construction of this castle. In 1362, Bishop Jan Bodzenta of Krakow built a castle chapel dedicated to the Holy Spirit. In the 14th and 15th centuries, the castle served as the residence of the influential Melsztyński branch of the Leliwita family. From that period, the Gothic walls of the keep have been preserved.

During the Renaissance phase, in 1546, Spytek Wawrzyniec Jordan commissioned the castle to be rebuilt in the Renaissance style. During this renovation, the surviving Renaissance wall with embrasures was created. Unfortunately, the castle suffered significant damage during the Bar Confederation in 1770 when it was occupied and burned down by Russian forces.

However, thanks to the efforts of the Zakliczyn municipality and the support of the Ministry of Culture and National Heritage, the Melsztyn Castle regained its former splendor in 2023. The reconstruction work brought about a beautiful effect, and the castle tower was raised to 18 meters.