Castle of the Dukes of Pomerania in Słupsk

This is the former residence of the princely Gryfit dynasty, built in the early 16th century in Gothic style by Duke Bogusław X. Previously, the townspeople opposed the construction of the castle, but the strengthened authority of the duke forced the city to relent. Construction began in 1507 on the site of the former mill courtyard, and the castle’s northern wall became part of the city's defensive wall. Although it was integrated into the fortifications, the castle mainly served as a residential building. It was a two-story structure with a tower adjacent to the main facade. In the 1580s, the castle was rebuilt by Duke John Frederick. The Gothic building of Bogusław X was transformed into a Renaissance residence. It gained two stories, large windows, an ornate tower, as well as a loggia and bay windows. The castle was characterized by spacious interiors, wide windows, and a hipped roof, with tiles imported from Sławno. After the death of the last member of the Gryfit family, Bogusław XIV, in 1637, the castle remained in the hands of his descendants until 1684, when Ernest Bogusław von Croy passed away. In the 18th century, the castle was converted into military barracks, and after a fire in 1821, it was used as a grain warehouse. After World War II, the castle was extensively renovated and today houses the Museum of Central Pomerania in Słupsk. The castle features five permanent exhibitions, including “Treasures of the Pomeranian Dukes,” “From the History of Słupsk,” and “The Art of Pomerania from the 14th to the 18th Century.” During the summer, weather permitting, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city from the top of the tower.