The Pomeranian Dukes' Castle stands on the hill above Szczecin's Old Town and is the city's defining landmark. It was the seat of the Griffin dynasty, the dukes who ruled Pomerania for centuries, and its Renaissance form dates largely from the 16th century. Visit for the calm, white-walled courtyard, the museum with the dukes' sarcophagi and the medieval crypts, and the bell tower, which looks out over the river and the city. Even a short stop in the courtyard is worth the time.
From the Griffin dukes to the 1944 bombing
The castle was the seat of the Griffin dynasty, the dukes who ruled Pomerania from the 12th century until the line died out in 1637. Their name comes from the griffin, a mythical creature you can spot all over the castle grounds. After the dynasty ended, the region was contested between Brandenburg-Prussia and Sweden.
The present building is a Renaissance castle. It was rebuilt in the 16th century under Duke Johann Friedrich and incorporates an earlier Gothic structure, and by 1577 it had grown into its current form. Allied bombing destroyed parts of it in 1944, and the castle was then extensively restored.
The courtyard and the outside
The central courtyard is square and symmetrical, with arcaded galleries and clean white walls. The Renaissance decoration is understated. Look for the repeated circular pattern on the walls, which resembles the yin and yang symbol. The courtyard is quiet and spacious, so you can take your time looking at the building.
From outside, the castle is large and blocky, and it looms over the streets of the Old Town. A baroque clock on the building has a face and a hand that points toward its nose. The castle has five wings and two courtyards.
Inside: crypts, sarcophagi and exhibitions
The castle holds medieval crypts and six sarcophagi of Pomeranian dukes. Dungeons are also part of the visit. Alongside the permanent exhibitions on the region's history, the castle hosts temporary art displays.
The castle is also a cultural venue. It hosts concerts, theatre, exhibitions, conferences and science events. Its largest wing houses an opera, and it is the only opera in Poland located inside a castle. Check the website if you want to see a performance.
The bell tower and the terrace
The bell tower can be climbed and gives a view over the city and the Oder. The tower holds the largest Gothic bell in Poland.
The castle also has a rooftop terrace with river views. It was renovated in recent years, and the terrace is part of the visit when the castle is open.
Preguntas frecuentes
Do I need to book tickets in advance?
Getting tickets in advance is recommended, so book ahead when you can.
Is there an entry fee?
Yes, the castle charges admission. Check the castle's website for current prices.
Can I see the courtyard without going inside?
Yes. The courtyard is worth a stop even if you do not go inside the castle.
Is the castle accessible for wheelchair users?
The entrance and the parking lot are wheelchair accessible.
Is the castle good for children?
The castle is listed as good for children, and it has the bell tower, crypts and sarcophagi to see.
