Szymbark: Castle, avenue and lake

When planning a visit to Szymbark, it is important to know that the castle is a ruin and its courtyard is currently closed to visitors because it is privately owned. You can view the complex from the outside by walking around its walls and through the former park by Lake Szymbarskie. If you would prefer to explore the castle and park independently of this walk, you can also take a virtual tour.

Szymbark Castle: Gothic ruins with a distinctive history

Szymbark Castle is a Gothic ruin dating from the 14th century and is considered the second-largest castle in Poland after Malbork. Its first construction phase lasted from 1378 to 1386. The complex includes a uniquely shaped Castellum-type defensive structure, which served as the residence of the provost of the Pomesanian Cathedral Chapter. Its architectural design and former role as a residence give the ruin more than just a military history: they also point to its significance for the Cathedral Chapter.

Since the stabilization and clearance work in the 1960s, the castle has remained a permanent ruin and is no longer in use. It is also known as a filming location: scenes for the film “Król Olch” starring John Malkovich were shot in the castle courtyard. A visit, therefore, focuses on a historic complex whose defining character today is that of a ruin.

Exploring from the outside and taking a virtual tour

Since the castle courtyard is currently inaccessible, visiting the site is different from touring open indoor spaces. You can explore the castle from the outside by walking around its walls and including the former park by Lake Szymbarskie. The walk is therefore focused on the exterior of the complex and the historic park area described here; it does not include entry to the courtyard.

Another option is offered by the Zamek Szymbark Foundation, which set up a website where you can take a virtual tour of the 14th-century castle and the park surrounding it. This provides two different ways to explore: outdoors, you can walk around the walls and through the former park; online, you can view the castle and park virtually. When planning your time in Szymbark, you can decide whether you would prefer to experience the complex from the outside or explore it virtually.

Avenues, park and lake in the surrounding area

Aleja Napoleona leads out of Szymbark. It is a pine avenue about 200 years old and is entirely protected as a natural monument. According to local tradition, the avenue led from Szymbark in the direction of the castle in Kamieniec. Napoleon was stationed there for two months in 1807. The tradition refers to the direction of the avenue; Napoleon’s reported stay was at the castle in Kamieniec.

West of the castle is an overgrown park with large oaks and beeches. Many of these trees are designated natural monuments. Lake Szymbarskie is also nearby, within the buffer zone of the landscape park. The lake covers 165.2 hectares and is 25.1 metres deep. It is also the landmark for the walk by the former castle park described here. Together, the avenue, park and lake provide a landscape-focused alternative to the historic castle, without requiring a walk through the castle courtyard.

Another place to visit near the castle is the von Finckenstein family cemetery. When planning your trip, you can choose what to focus on in Szymbark: the castle and its architectural history offer a cultural and historical focus, while the avenue, park and lake provide other points of interest in the surrounding area.

More pages about nearby places

Zalewo, Dobrzyki, Siemiany, Mątyki, Międzychód, Zabrowo, Wola, Szałkowo

For the broader travel overview: Iławski.