Siedlęcin

The legends of King Arthur, Lancelot, and the beautiful Guinevere are primarily associated with the British Isles. On the continental side of the English Channel, they have survived in literature and songs. Few know that traces of the valiant knights of the Round Table can be found in Polish lands. A trip to the area around Jelenia Góra is enough to see the Arthurian world with your own eyes. Where? In Siedlęcin.

This small town, located in the Bóbr Valley Landscape Park, hides a treasure – a global unique phenomenon. These are 14th-century wall paintings depicting the legend of Sir Lancelot from the Lake. They are located in the prince's tower, which is interesting in its own right. Its construction dates back to 1313, and the founder was Duke Henry I of Jawor. Although popularly referred to as a knightly tower, it also served a residential function. It is this function that makes the building regarded as the largest medieval residential tower in Central Europe. And it is truly impressive – measuring 20 by 15 meters, it originally had four floors. Its structure is already striking.

And real admiration is evoked by the aforementioned medieval paintings depicting the legend of Sir Lancelot from the Lake. They are the only representation of this theme in the world and also the oldest secular painting in Poland. A perfect setting for them is another "oldest" – the oldest complete wooden ceilings in the country.

This one of the MOST interesting places in Poland is, of course, open to visitors. The tower, and consequently the paintings and ceilings, can be visited every day; during the season (May-October) from 09:00 to 18:00, and off-season from 10:00 to 16:00. A standard ticket costs 7 zlotys, and a reduced ticket – depending on the discount – ranges from 5 to 6 zlotys. It’s worth visiting on a Saturday when a farmers’ market called Górskie Smaki takes place in the square near the tower. Every Saturday (except holidays) from 11:00 to 13:30, you can purchase local products, including specialties such as cow and goat cheeses, cold cuts, honey, and various spreads. As can be seen, Siedlęcin is a tourist attraction not only for the spirit but also for the body.

Author of the photos and text - Bogusława Bandyk