If you are passionate about history and want to experience the atmosphere of Poland’s medieval history, then the Eagles’ Nests Landscape Park would be your best choice. Situated on the beautiful, undulating Kraków-Czestochowa Upland, it is a 597 km2 protected area established in 1980 and covers much of the area of the Trail of the Eagles’ Nests, which is a marked trail along a chain of 25 medieval castles. This special name of the Park stems from numerous medieval castles built in the area, which are mostly located on tall rocks and cliffs in the Polish Jura and are compared to eagles’ nests.
Hiking with fun ⛰?♀️?♂️
For those who enjoy the outdoors, there are many hiking trails and limestone rocks perfect for climbing. One of the best ways to visit the Eagles’ Nests is to hike along the 164 km the Trail of the Eagle’s Nests, which is a marked trail along a chain of 25 medieval castles that starts in Kraków and ends in Czestochowa and is considered as one of the best tourist trails in Poland. Along the way, people can admire many historic castles and a location for the Netflix series The Witcher. For families with children, they will love the fresh air and easy trails here.
Visit the extraordinary castles ? ?? ?
The castles date mostly to the 14th century, they were constructed probably by the order of King of Poland Casimir the Great and were built to protect Krakow as well as important trading routes against the foreign invaders. Later on, some of the castles passed on into the hands of various aristocratic families. New owners usually refurbished and renovated their medieval fortresses as stately manor-houses and family nests but eventually, the proud Eagle-nest castles largely turned into picturesque ruins. Nonetheless, they remain spectacular landmarks and well worth a visit.
? Among all the castles, the most particular one is Pieskowa Skala Castle, which is one of the best examples of Renaissance architecture in Poland that once serviced as a seat of several noble families, located just 40 km from Krakow Old Town and surrounded by the picturesque Polish Jurassic Highland. Today, the castle is known as one of the pearls of the Polish Renaissance featuring the 16th-century arcaded courtyard and observation loggia. It looks fabulous, especially in autumn when surrounded by colorful leaves.
? Ogrodzieniec Castle is another highlight in the trail, which is one of the biggest fortresses in Europe. Located on the peak of the Upland – the Castle Hill, rising at 515,5 m above sea level, the castle is a ruined medieval castle that was originally built in the 14th–15th century. It is perfectly integrated with the area. Three sides of the castle were covered by high rocks, and the circuit was closed by a stone wall, leading through a narrow slot between the rocks. People who visit here will marvel at its wonders.
Photo by krakow.wiki
