Moszna Castle (Schloss Moschen), Poland
The castle (palace) in Moszna (German: Schloss Moschen) is an exceptionally impressive and beautiful former residence of the Tiele-Winckler family, located in the charming village of Moszna, near Krapkowice, in the Opole province. The magnificent building, designed in the style of a baroque palace, was originally erected in the mid-18th century. Over the years, however, it has undergone numerous modifications, particularly after a devastating fire in 1896, which led to significant reconstruction and expansion. It is famously said to boast 90 towers, though we found it quite a challenge to count them all. Surrounding the palace is a sprawling and picturesque park, home to remarkable English oaks and stunning rhododendrons. While the palace once served as a neurosis therapy center, it has now been transformed into a luxurious hotel and a fine restaurant, making it a perfect destination for both history enthusiasts and those seeking a relaxing getaway.
This architectural marvel stands as a unique example of eclecticism, blending elements of Neo-Gothic, Neo-Renaissance, and Neo-Baroque styles to create a truly fairytale-like structure. The palace's unusual and whimsical design, with its multitude of towers, turrets, and spires, makes it one of the most recognizable castles in Poland. It’s not just a building; it's a piece of art that seems to defy conventional architectural rules. The history of the Tiele-Winckler family, who owned the estate for generations, is deeply intertwined with the palace's legacy. Their vision transformed the original baroque manor into the spectacular residence we see today, a place that continues to inspire awe and imagination.
Parking in Moszna nearby castle
To reach the village, you can take road 409 and then turn onto Zamkowa or Wiejska street, depending on your direction of approach. After a short drive of about 400 meters, you will arrive at the main parking lot (1; GPS: 50.437223, 17.766896), which is conveniently located approximately 400 meters on foot from the castle entrance. This parking area is quite spacious, with enough room for at least 60-70 cars. The price for a full day of parking is a very reasonable 5 PLN, making it a budget-friendly option for visitors. The short walk from the car park to the palace grounds is pleasant and offers the first glimpses of the stunning architecture as you approach.
If you arrive during peak hours or later in the day, you might find the main parking lot full. However, there's no need to worry—a second, private parking lot is available on Wiejska street (2; GPS: 50.436095, 17.769637). We noticed that this alternative parking often has plenty of available spaces, even when the main lot is completely occupied. While we don't know the exact price, it is common in smaller towns for parking fees to be synchronized to avoid unnecessary competition. This secondary option provides a reliable backup, ensuring that you can always find a convenient place to park and start your tour of the palace and park without any stress.
Getting to the castle, buying tickets
From the parking lot, it's a pleasant 400-meter walk along Zamkowa street to reach the palace grounds. You will first encounter a barrier with a booth, but this is not where you purchase tickets. Instead, you need to continue straight and then turn left to find the main ticket office, which is located at the gate surrounding the palace area (K1; GPS: 50.440335, 17.767889). This main ticket office is equipped with two windows and accepts card payments, making the process smooth and convenient. Ticket prices vary depending on whether you wish to explore just the park and exterior or also venture inside the palace. As of 2022, park admission is 14 PLN for a normal ticket and 9 PLN for a reduced ticket, while interior sightseeing costs 33 PLN for a normal ticket and 21 PLN for a reduced one. For the most up-to-date information, it is always best to check the castle's official website. Interestingly, on weekends, an additional ticket office opens a little further down on the right, next to another gate (K2; GPS: 50.439375, 17.769306), which also accepts card payments, helping to reduce queues during busy periods.
Visiting the castle in Moszna
The castle in Moszna is truly a sight to behold, appearing as if it was plucked directly from the pages of a fantasy novel or a classic fairy tale. Each of its architectural elements is distinct, yet they all come together harmoniously to create a magnificent and cohesive whole. On our visit, we opted to buy tickets to explore the castle's exterior and stroll through the park, but we also ventured inside to visit the restaurant. The interior of the restaurant is absolutely beautiful, featuring genuine wood decor, a sumptuous fireplace, and ornate walls and stairs that exude a sense of old-world grandeur. You can also relax on the scenic terrace, where you can enjoy a great cup of coffee or delicious ice cream, which is uniquely served from a converted French Citroen delivery truck. In June, the palace grounds are particularly stunning as vibrant lavender blooms, followed by a sea of colorful coneflowers that attract countless bees, bumblebees, and other pollinators, creating a lively and buzzing atmosphere.
The main entrance to the entire structure is on the southwest side, which is the best way to enter if you want to visit the restaurant. On the opposite side, the castle is adorned with a set of beautiful stairs and a charming fountain surrounded by manicured flower beds. Further on, a path leads you deeper into the expansive park. Following this path will take you to the former location of a monument to the castle's owner, Hubert von Tiele-Winckler (A; GPS: 50.4446656, 17.7727750). Unfortunately, only the plinth and a commemorative plaque remain today, but they still serve as a poignant reminder of the palace's history. The path branches out, leading you deeper into the park's dense greenery. If you plan to explore the park extensively, it is highly recommended to have a map on your smartphone, as the paths often intersect and look similar, making it easy to lose your way in this vast and beautiful landscape.
Among the park's many unique features, one of the most remarkable is the solitary Weymouth pine, a natural monument that is approximately 200 years old (B; GPS: 50.440466, 17.769430). This iconic tree is adequately reinforced with supports and ropes to ensure its continued growth and protection from damage. It has become one of the cherished symbols of the place, and its longevity is a testament to the care and preservation of the park's natural heritage. Seeing this majestic tree standing tall is a truly inspiring sight.
Gastronomy in Moszna
The culinary offerings in Moszna are centered around the historic castle itself, providing visitors with a dining experience that matches the grandeur of the location. While the village is small, the palace's restaurant offers a refined and memorable meal, perfect for a break during your visit.
What to Try?
- Palace Restaurant Dishes: The castle's restaurant, located in the beautiful interior of the palace, offers a menu with a focus on Polish and European cuisine. Expect elegant dishes and a sophisticated atmosphere.
- Coffee and Desserts: The castle is a great place to enjoy a coffee, especially on the picturesque terrace. The ice cream served from the unique Citroen delivery truck is a must-try, offering a charming and delicious treat.
- Regional Specialties: While dining at the palace, look for dishes that use local ingredients from the Opole province. This region is known for its hearty, traditional Polish food.
Where to Eat?
The primary and most recommended dining spot is located directly within the castle itself, but there are also other local options.
- Castle Restaurant: This is the main gastronomic attraction. The stunning interior with its wooden decor and ornate fireplace provides an unforgettable setting for a meal.
- Cafes and Kiosks: In the park area and near the parking lots, you can find small stands and cafes selling snacks, drinks, and ice cream, perfect for a quick bite while exploring the grounds.
- Local Eateries in the Village: For a more casual experience, you might find a few simple eateries or bars in the village of Moszna itself.
- Nearby Towns: If you are looking for more dining options, nearby towns like Krapkowice or Opole offer a wider selection of restaurants, pizzerias, and bars.
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