The ruins of the Ogrodzieniec Castle in Podzamcze - Station 13 - Mount Birów northern part

Description

The first time Mount Birów appeared in the maps was in the 15th century. However, the first traces of settlement date back 30,000 years. Hunters settled their headquarters in the caves of Mount Birów. Archaeologists found here, in addition to tools, also ornaments made from reindeer horn. It was found that Lusatian culture left here numerous relics; among others: arrowheads, female ornaments, tools, and utensils. Its end came with the invasion of the Scythians. The next inhabitants of the castle were the Vandals. The findings after these peoples are unique in Polish scale. In the 9th century the Slavs came to the hill. With time, the town became a place of stationing of the duke group, as evidenced by numerous findings of military nature. How important was this city, is also proved by the styli used for writing on wax tablets. Its rank did not protect it from destruction: it was burned down in the first half of the 14th century during the Polish-Czech battles.

The above-described findings, and military reconstruction can be seen in the watchtower (photo 07.13.001). An encampment was staged here. Three warriors visible at the exhibition presents various types of clothing; different are also their tools and weapons. They have different application, depending on the time of the year and the activities for which they were intended. Warriors wore some clothes during normal day, other for hunting, and different one during the battle. This exhibition help you to imagine how their lives in the camp looked like (photo 07.13.002-07.13.003). On Mount Birów you can also watch live staging, since (quite often) are held here shows with scenes of everyday life and military meetings of Middle Ages lovers.

On the first floor of the tower you can see the original objects uncovered during the archaeological work, as well as copies of some of the findings. These are fragments of spurs, horseshoes, sickles, arrowheads, knives, keys and other everyday objects (photo 07.13.004-07.13.007). Archaeologists also worked at the foot of the mountain. Through research it was determined that the whole cluster consisted of a settlement, the castle town, flint workshop on the top of the monadnock, extensive settlement at the foot of the rocks, and a cairn cemetery. Interestingly, it was also found that the broad plaza visible within the castle was not built (photo 07.13.009). All the structures were built near natural and artificial defensive walls.

From the hill there is a magnificent view of the surrounding countryside. Behind the watchtower on the right side was organized a vantage (photo 07.13.008). From this point you have the panorama of the whole city and the Ogrodzieniec Castle. With good weather you can see the castle in Smoleń, located about 13 km to the southeast.

Mount Birów is the last stage of the visit to Podzamcze. We believe that the numerous monuments gathered in such a small area met your expectations. If you like to still remain in the area, we encourage you to enjoy the brand new tourist attractions. Are waiting for you: a rope park, a miniature park and accommodation and a variety of dining options, right under the castle.