Day 73 POLAND Zamek Karpniki

This castle was a 14th century Prussian fortress that became the royal residence. It was originally known as Vishbach.
In 1475, Castellan Henryk von Czirn expanded the early building into a more significant castle structure consisting of a tower and residential wings.
In 1593 The estate was severely damaged by fire but was quickly rebuilt and expanded into a Renaissance-style residence by the Kanitz family.
In 1822 Prince Wilhelm von Hohenzollern (brother of Prussian King Friedrich Wilhelm III) bought the property and made a Neogothic Makeover by renowned royal architect Karl Friedrich Schinkel who helped redesign the castle into a stunning English Neo-Gothic palace. A water moat and stone arch bridge were added to complete the fairytale look. Silesian Elysium created a sprawling English landscape park that connected Karpniki with neighboring royal estates into one vast landscape garden.
During the 19th century, the castle welcomed prominent elite figures, including Tsar Nicholas I of Russia, King Friedrich Wilhelm IV, and various European aristocrats.
During World War II, the German administration used Karpniki to hide priceless museum collections and art plundered from occupied territories.
After 1945, the region became part of Poland. The castle was used for various purposes, including a school, a colonial holiday home, and a hospital. It was eventually abandoned and fell into severe ruin.
In 2009, a private investor, Jacek Masior purchased the crumbling castle and began a meticulous, multi-year renovation process.

Our hayfever was so bad, we decided not to venture out of the castle today. This would officially be our first proper rest day.
We had a buffet breakfast, a spa, then a 5 course degustation dinner.
Very decadent and restful day. Did only 890 steps today.

Since I'm in Poland and they complain alot, this castle provides 2 flat rectangular non supportive pillows. When we asked for 4 pillows before we arrived, we were given 2 rectangle and 2 tiny square flat pillows smaller than the average cushion. When we asked for 2 more pillows they said the castle was full and no more pillows available yesterday. However they rang to say 2 pillows had come available today and sent up 2 tiny flat square additional pillows. .... but it could be worse.Read more