Things to do
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Książ Castle
The largest castle in Silesia, set on a cliff above a wooded gorge outside Wałbrzych and home to the Hochberg family for centuries. The tour runs through restored state rooms and terraced gardens, and Nazi-era tunnels lie beneath the rock. Tickets are timed in summer, so book ahead or arrive early.
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Church of Peace
A huge half-timbered Lutheran church raised in under a year after the Thirty Years' War, now a World Heritage Site. Inside, tiers of painted wooden galleries and a gilded altar seat several thousand. Entry is ticketed, an audio guide is included, and the church closes to sightseers during Sunday services.
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Church of Peace in Jawor
The twin of the Świdnica church, built of timber and clay in 1654 and sharing the same World Heritage listing. Four tiers of galleries are painted with biblical scenes and the coats of arms of noble families. It is ticketed and hosts summer concerts, so check the programme before a visit.
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Grodno Castle
A hilltop castle above Lake Bystrzyckie at Zagórze Śląskie, with a Renaissance courtyard and a tower over the forest. A steep path of about 20 minutes climbs from the dam. The castle is ticketed, and the walk pairs well with the lakeside path.
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Hotel Książ
A hotel in the castle's former outbuildings, with rooms looking onto the courtyards and the forest gorge. Guests can walk the gardens and terraces early before the day tours arrive. Book ahead for summer weekends and the castle's flower festival.
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Krzeszów Abbey
A Cistercian abbey with a twin-towered Baroque basilica and a separate church of St. Joseph painted by Michael Willmann. The mausoleum of the Silesian Piast dukes sits behind the high altar. The churches are ticketed with a guide, and the abbey closes to tours during Sunday Mass.
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Świdnica Cathedral
A Gothic church of St. Stanislaus and St. Wenceslaus with a tower of about 103 metres, the tallest church tower in Silesia. The interior is crowded with Baroque altars and paintings added after the Jesuits took it over. Entry is free outside services, and the tower climb is open in season.
