The ruins of the Ogrodzieniec Castle in Podzamcze - Station 12 –Mount Birów southern part

Description

You are on Mount Birów, in one of the most interesting forts made available to tourists. The reconstruction you are observing was founded in 2008. It was prepared on the basis of archaeological research started in 1990.

The hill was naturally formed, a perfect place for the construction of a castle town. From three sides the access is defended by monadnocks, making it virtually inaccessible. This natural barrier was the source of the name of this type of castles, called ”wolf's jaw”. The fourth uncovered side was a great observing point.

The free space between rocks was filled with shaft so the whole could act as a fortification. Such a fence was built of stone, wood, and clay. Today on the hill there is its reconstruction (photo 07.12.001). Currently from this site is the entrance to the city (photo 07.12.002), which in ancient times was placed more north. This entrance was not easy, as the inhabitants had to almost climb the rock thresholds. A wall was built also from the north which, however, was made of stone.

Today, on the defence wall are placed two structures. The first is the entrance gate, and the second is a watchtower (photo 07.12.003) that has today the function of viewpoint terrace (photo 07.12.004). Inside, there is an interesting cross-section of cultural layers of the settlement, placed in a glass display (photo 07.12.005).

The castle town on Mount Birów is a place that in perfectly extends adult’s knowledge and develops children's imagination. The reconstruction on the top recalls the beginnings of the Middle Ages in Poland. On the left side from the entrance there is a residential cottage (photo 07.12.006). One of its chambers was destined to dining area with table and benches (photo 07.12.007). This part was decorated with hunting trophies and weapon components (photo 07.12.008-07.12.010). Also the kitchen was reconstructed with a ceramic stove, querns, and various objects of daily use (photo 07.12.011-07.12.012). The heat radiating from the stove was used to organize a bedroom. This place was covered with skins and furs. (Photo 07.12.013). Above the cottage on the left side there is an observation tower (photo 07.12.014).

Now, please, move to the northern part of the hill.