Defensive enclousure of the small castle in Witków, Silesia

Abstract

The subject of the paper is to present the architectural transformations of the defensive enclosure of the small castle in Witków. This complex is one of the best-preserved examples of medieval seats of knights in Silesia. Unfortunately, in the literature to date, only the tower house with gothic polychromes has been discussed in greater detail. Basing on source references, descriptions from early modern urbariums, the results of architectural research and archaeological excavations, the authors discuss the emerging and transformations of the defensive enclosure. The implementation of the medieval complex including a curtain, along with a gatehouse and a gate, was set in the early 15th century. The Renaissance reconstruction, including the introduction of four regularly arranged towers, is related to the takeover of the castle by Fabian von Schonäich and works confirmed by the date 1557visible on one of the window stone frames. Another significant construction action is set in the second half of the 17th century, probably carried out in connection with the deteriorating condition of the buildings on the site.