Olsztyn Castle

Olsztyn Castle is the oldest building in the city. It was built between 1346 and 1353 and consisted of one wing on the north side of the quadrangle. It has since been rebuilt several times. In 1505 the castle was surrounded by walls. After the annexation of Warmia to Poland in 1466, the castle lost its original importance as a defensive structure, and in the second half of the XVI century it was transformed into a summer residence of bishops.

During the year (1520-1521) Nicholas Copernicus lived in this castle, who served as administrator of the possessions of the capital. He personally participated in the organization of the defense of the city from the Teutonic Knights, and after the war discussed the terms of the peace treaty. Walking through the castle galleries, be sure to pay attention to the authentic astronomical table of Nicolaus Copernicus, and you will feel the fascination of history and longing for the stars, which can be satisfied in the Olsztyn Planetarium.

Since 1945, the castle houses the Museum of Warmia and Mazur. The museum often hosts various exhibitions dedicated to the history of the region.

So, here every Thursday is dedicated to Copernicus, music connoisseurs will like the concerts of the chamber ensemble “Pro Musica Antiqua”, in addition, meetings from the cycle “Autobiography” are constantly organized here.