The long-standing tower of Lublin’s castle complex, known in Polish as the donżon (ENG: keep), was built by Prince Leszek the Black in the late 13th century and is the oldest brick structure in the city. Indeed the castle complex has gone through numerous iterations in its lifetime, however, this tower has stayed put in its original style for more than 800 years! After numerous raids from Lithuanians, Ruthenians, Yotvingians, and Tatars, the first brick upgrade was made here for defensive purposes, but later took on a prison role in later centuries. In more recent history, political prisoners of both the Nazi and Communist regimes were held there and, on the tower's bottom level, the names of various 'martyrs' from these periods are commemorated in black marble panels lining the walls. The exhibition presenting the different periods of the tower’s history can be viewed on each ascending level, however, all the information is limited to Polish. With that in mind, those who do not read and ramble the language will still have a fantastic panorama to look forward to at the top! Money well spent, regardless of the language barrier.
Entry to the Donżon can be found in the courtyard of the Castle complex. It is possible to buy a ticket that covers the chapel, museum and Donżon tower, all of which are found within the same site.
View of Lublin Old Town from the top of the donżon tower in the middle of Lublin Castle.
Comments