About 38 km from Poza Zgiełkiem, on the Sajna river, rises the Gothic Teutonic castle in Reszel – one of the best-preserved castles of Warmia. Built in the 14th century as a defensive fortress, today it combines history with modernity: it houses a hotel, restaurant and contemporary art gallery. Just 3 kilometres away stands the famous Święta Lipka.
History – from fortress to prison and hotel
Reszel Castle was built from the 14th to 15th century as the seat of the Warmian bishop and a Teutonic defensive fortress. In 1780 it served as a prison; burned in 1806 during the Napoleonic Wars, it was rebuilt in 1822 with an altered form and took on the role of a Lutheran church. During World War II it housed a museum. After the war the castle underwent thorough renovation and is today the only castle in Poland that simultaneously functions as a hotel, museum and art gallery.
Art Gallery and overnight stay in the castle
A prestigious contemporary art gallery operates within the castle walls – exhibitions change regularly, and openings attract artists from across Poland. The castle hotel offers a dozen unique rooms in Gothic halls with original brick architecture. The castle restaurant serves regional Warmian cuisine. This is an ideal place for a romantic weekend or an overnight stay during a trip with Święta Lipka.
Reszel – picturesque town on the Sajna
The small town of Reszel itself is exceptionally charming – a Gothic parish church, cobbled streets and half-timbered houses create a unique atmosphere. Along the Sajna river you can walk and watch birds in the riverside bushes. Reszel is 3 km from Święta Lipka – both places complement each other perfectly for a day trip. From Poza Zgiełkiem the drive takes about 45 minutes via Kętrzyn.
Visitor tip
Reszel Castle and [[Święta Lipka|swieta-lipka]] (3 km further) are a perfect pair for one day. Start with a Mass or organ concert at Święta Lipka, then lunch at the castle restaurant in Reszel and a walk around the town. From Poza Zgiełkiem the whole outing takes about 5–6 hours.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons / TBS / CC BY-SA 3.0
