Piast Tower
Opolskie
Piast Tower, located in Opole, Poland, is one of the oldest surviving examples of medieval defensive architecture in the country. Constructed around 1300 during the reign of Duke Bolko I of Opole, it was originally part of the Piast Castle complex, serving as a fortified tower or keep. The tower stands on a deep stone foundation, with walls up to 3 meters thick at the base, and originally featured an entrance 9 meters above ground level accessible by wooden gangways connected to the castle walls. Inside, it housed a dungeon, kitchen, living quarters, a hall, and a guardroom. Over the centuries, the tower's roof underwent numerous reconstructions, adapting to changing architectural styles and post-fire repairs, including a notable rebuild after the 1739 fire. Despite the demolition of the rest of the castle in 1928, the tower was preserved due to local efforts and is now integrated into the building of the Opole Voivodeship office. It leans slightly due to uneven foundation settling but remains structurally sound. Since its renovation in 2013-2014, visitors can explore the restored tower, enjoy multimedia presentations about the history of Opole and the Piast Castle, and ascend to the observation deck for sweeping views of the city. The tower is a symbol of Opole's rich medieval heritage and a prominent landmark on the city's skyline.
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Tip: Visitors are encouraged to book tickets in advance due to high interest. The tower is open Monday to Friday from 9:00 to 17:00 and weekends from 11:00 to 16:00, with the last admission 40 minutes before closing. Guided tours last about 40 minutes and include access to the tower, the observation terrace, and a multimedia presentation suitable for children aged six and older. Check for holiday hour changes. Comfortable footwear is recommended due to 163 stairs inside the tower.
Interesting facts
- •Piast Tower is one of the oldest brick defensive structures in Poland, built on a 6-meter deep stone foundation.
- •The tower leans about 1.5 degrees due to uneven settling of its foundations.
- •It survived the great fire of Opole in 1615 but lost its original conical roof in a later fire in 1739.
- •The tower was incorporated into the Opole Voivodeship office building after the castle's demolition in 1928.
- •A multimedia show inside the tower is designed for children aged six and older, enhancing the educational visit experience.
History
Piast Tower was built around 1300 as part of the Piast Castle under Duke Bolko I of Opole, serving as a defensive keep.
It survived major events including the great fire of Opole in 1615 and a destructive fire in 1739 which damaged its original conical roof.
The rest of the castle was demolished in 1928, but the tower was saved by local citizens and Polish activists.
Over time, the tower's roof was rebuilt several times, with the current 42-meter height achieved after a 1957 addition.
It underwent a major renovation between 2011 and 2014, reopening to the public with modernized facilities and multimedia exhibits.
Place Guide
The Dungeon and Living Quarterscirca 1300
Originally, the tower contained a dungeon, kitchen, living room, hall, and guardroom, reflecting its role as a self-contained defensive stronghold.
Observation Deck and Panorama
At the top of the 42-meter tower, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Opole and its surroundings, offering a unique perspective on the city’s medieval and modern landscape.
Multimedia Exhibition2014
A modern multimedia presentation inside the tower narrates the history of Opole, the Piast Castle, and the tower itself, engaging visitors with interactive displays suitable for children aged six and above.
Contact
Phone: 77 441 50 20
