Darłowo Castle

The Gothic stronghold of the Dukes of Pomerania in Darłowois a unique monument of defensive architecture on the map of Western Pomerania, being the only seaside castle in Poland. This medieval residence, built in the 14th century on the initiative of Duke Bogusław V of the Gryfit dynasty, is today an extraordinary testimony to the power and wealth of the former Duchy of Pomerania. The monumental red brick building, surrounded by a moat, towers over the city and the Wieprza River, creating a picturesque panorama of Darłowo.

The medieval Darłowo fortress delights with its authentic Gothic architecture, enriched with Renaissance elements added during later reconstructions. The four wings of the fortress surround a rectangular courtyard, and the whole is topped with a characteristic octagonal tower, which is an excellent viewing point of the city and the surrounding area. The historic princely seat is distinguished by perfectly preserved defensive walls, towers and a fortification system, which testify to the military importance of the facility in the past.

Currently, the Darłowo Prince's Palace functions as a Regional Museum, offering visitors a fascinating journey through the ages. In the chambers of the Gryfice fortress, you can admire rich archaeological, historical and art collections, including a unique collection of sarcophagi of King Eric of Pomerania, who ruled Denmark, Sweden and Norway at the same time. The museum exhibition also includes antique furniture, weapons, coins and works of sacred art, providing insight into the material culture of Pomerania from the Middle Ages to the modern era.

The historic defensive structure in Darłowo is famous for numerous legends and stories, among which the most famous concerns the White Lady - the ghost of Princess Elizabeth, who supposedly haunts the castle chambers to this day. This romantic legend adds mystery to the entire complex, attracting history lovers with a thrill. During the tour, you can also learn fascinating stories related to King Eric of Pomerania and other members of the Gryfitadynasty who left their mark on the history of the region.

The historic defensive structure in Darłowo is open to visitors all year round, with extended opening hours in the summer season. The location of the monument in the centre of Darłowo, just a few kilometres from the seaside town of Darłowo and popular resorts such as Dąbki, makes it an ideal destination for a trip during a holiday stay on the Baltic Sea. Guests of the region can combine a visit to the Pomeranian princely seat with a walk around the charming old town of Darłowo, a visit to St. Mary's Church or a rest in one of the many cafes on the Darłowo market square.

The historic residence in Darłowo is not only a valuable monument of Gothic architecture, but also an important cultural centre of the region. Temporary exhibitions, early music concerts, historical reconstructions and educational events are organised within the walls of the medieval fortress, which bring the history of Pomerania closer to both residents and tourists. Visiting this unique Pomeranian fortress is a must for every lover of history, architecture and maritime stories visiting Western Pomerania.