KARŁOWICE CASTLE

Karłowice Castle is one of the oldest and best-preserved medieval strongholds in Opole County. Erected in the mid-14th century, it dates back to the era when the Karłowice estate was held by the Czambor de Kertzendorf (von Tschammer) family. Situated on a slight elevation along the banks of the River Stobrawa, the castle was designed on an irregular trapezoidal plan featuring a tower in its western section. Originally, the entire complex was encircled by a water-filled moat. In 1440, ownership passed to the von Beess family, and in 1565, the property was purchased by the Piast dynasty of Brzeg. Under their tenure, the castle was reconstructed: a new residential building was erected, the tower was raised to approximately 25 metres, and the gatehouse wing was expanded. A Baroque chapel was also established within the castle walls, serving as a place of worship for both the residents and local Catholics. Following the extinction of the Brzeg line of the Piast dynasty in 1675, the estate entered the royal domain and was frequently leased, changing hands many times. Today, stripped of its contents and devastated following the Second World War, the castle remains in private hands and is closed to visitors. It is currently listed for sale.