Ducal Castle in Schetsyn

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Description

The Ducal Castle in Szczecin, Poland, was the seat of the dukes of Pomerania-Stettin of the House of Pomerania (Griffins), who ruled the Duchy of Pomerania from 1121 to 1637.

History

Barnim the Great of Pomerania-Stettin erected the castle within Szczecin's walls against the will of the burghers in 1346. An older Pomeranian burgh had been leveled in 1249. In 1490 the castle was partially reconstructed for Bogusław X's wedding with Anna Jagiellonka (daughter of king Casimir IV Jagiellon).

Between 1573−1582 the castle was rebuilt again, this time in the mannerist style for duke John Frederick by Italian stonemasons according to design by Wilhelm Zachariasz Italus. Two new wings were added to close the courtyard before the medieval southern and eastern wings. The main gate was adorned with ducal crest, the eastern wing was enhanced and the northern wing was intended for chapel.

In 1648, due to the tenets of the Peace of Westphalia, the castle become a seat of Swedish governor. Before 1705 another reconstruction occurred to prepare the castle for Queen of Poland - Catherine Opalińska, who lived here with her daughters Anna and Marie Leszczyńska (future Queen of France) and a small court between 1705-1711. In 1711 king Stanisław I Leszczyński, who sought refuge before chasing him Saxon and Russian forces, joined his wife and daughters at the castle.

After the Great Northern War, in 1720, the city of Szczecin become a Prussian property and the castle was allocated to the garrison commander Christian August, Prince of Anhalt-Zerbst, whose daughter was Sophie Friederike Auguste (future Catherine II of Russia). Under Prussian rule in the 19th century many renaissance elements in the castle were devastated (arcades, attics, vaulting). Eventually about 60% of the castle was destroyed during World War II (August 1944). Shortly after the war between 1958–1980, it was rebuilt with some modifications. The castle was restored to its original 16th century appearance according to 1653 engraving by Matthäus Merian (among others).

Street view

Reviews

06.09.2021 Juan
The old town section of Szczecin is rather small, and this is the main attraction. It's got a couple of places to eat, some exhibitions, but I would not recommend coming to town just to see this. The waterfront is much more interesting, and on weekends they have some pretty amazing farmer's markets in the area.
06.09.2021 Sim
Is definitely interesting and a beautiful building. From a tower there is a very nice view over the city. However, there are only a few information panels in German or English. That's why only 3 stars
06.09.2021 Malgorzata
As far as castles go, this is not the most fabulous one, however offers a unique historical background of the area. Loved the view from the top and the map exhibit.
06.09.2021 Lakisha
I had a good time here. Very different from the museums you'll see in the United States. And I never thought I'll ever be in a castle.
06.09.2021 Kostyantyn
There was Temple of pagan God Triglav before 1128. On this place was Hall where the nobles met for sacred feasts using gold and silver dishes.
06.09.2021 laura
nice place with many places where you can have something to eat and a good variety of shops which suit all types of budgets
06.09.2021 Dawid
Nothing much to see apart from two courtyards as it is still functioning borough office building. Looks much more majestic and presentable from outside.
02.05.2018 safwan
I like this place and I like to sit in the cafee inside the castle drinking coffee , but unfurtunatly , since 15 years ago all they are not finishing reparing this beautiful castle. , beter if they leave it is without repair
Safwan Sai
01.05.2018 Michael
A fantastic historical site. You feel you are part of history. A wedding took place here.
22.03.2018 Michal
Beautiful castle with a great history currently in renovation. (March 2018)
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