The ruins of Krzyżtopór Castle in Ujazd

Model by Atlas 3D – photogrammetry in Poland

Krzyżtopór Castle in Ujazd was built in the first half of the 17th century by Krzysztof Ossoliński, Voivode of Sandomierz and one of the wealthiest magnates of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. Construction began around 1621 and was completed in 1644, a year before the founder’s death. The architect was Wawrzyniec Senes, inspired by Italian palaces, especially the Farnese residence in Caprarola.

The castle was designed as a “palazzo in fortezza” – a combination of a palace and a fortress. The entire complex covered around 1.3 hectares, with over 600 meters of surrounding walls. Unlike other residences of the era, it stood out not only for its monumental scale but also for its symbolic architecture. According to legend, the castle had 365 windows – one for each day of the year, 52 rooms – like weeks, 12 grand halls – like months, and 4 towers – symbolizing the seasons.

The structure was famous for luxuries unheard of in Europe at the time. It featured a water system, sewage, and even underfloor heating. The most remarkable element was reportedly a dining hall with a glass ceiling that doubled as an aquarium filled with exotic fish – a feature that amazed contemporaries.

After Krzysztof Ossoliński’s death, the castle passed to his son, who died a few years later. Over time, the residence changed hands and gradually lost its importance. During the Swedish Deluge in 1655, the castle was captured and plundered by Swedish troops, though the walls remained intact. Eventually, due to neglect and lack of funds, the building began to deteriorate.

Further damage was inflicted by Russian forces in 1770 during the Bar Confederation when part of the fortifications was blown up. After that, the castle was never rebuilt. Its last inhabitants lived there until the end of the 18th century. Since then, Krzyżtopór has remained a ruin—yet one that still retains about 90% of its original wall structure.

Today, the castle is considered one of the most spectacular ruins in Poland and one of the largest aristocratic residences of its time in Europe. In 2018, it was officially recognized as a Historic Monument.

Trivia and Legends

• The name “Krzyżtopór” comes from the founder’s coat of arms – a “topór” (axe) – and the Christian cross, both visible above the main gate.
• Legend has it that hundreds of thousands of egg whites were used in the mortar to strengthen the castle’s walls.
• Another tale speaks of a secret underground tunnel connecting the castle to distant Ossolin – supposedly wide enough to travel by sleigh.
• The dining hall’s glass ceiling was said to double as an aquarium, allowing guests to watch fish swim above them while dining – an unheard-of luxury in those times.
• The ruins are said to be haunted by spirits, including the ghost of a winged hussar and Krzysztof Ossoliński himself, who reportedly died under mysterious circumstances.

3D Model of Krzyżtopór Castle

The 3D model of Krzyżtopór Castle, created as part of the Atlas 3D project, was produced using photogrammetry – based on hundreds of aerial and ground-level photos. The model accurately reflects the spatial layout of the ruins, preserved wall fragments, courtyards, and towers. It allows for detailed exploration of the structure, offering insights into its architectural design and symbolic concepts.

The model was developed for educational, archival, and promotional purposes. It is available for interactive viewing on the Sketchfab platform, and as a film presentation on the Atlas 3D YouTube channel.