It was built in the 15th century in the centre of Zywiec. The oldest Gothic structure consisted of a residential tower, wooden buildings and a moat. Later the whole structure became a defensive fort but by the end of the 16th century it took on the characteristics of a Renaissance residence – with cloisters and attics. Subsequent redevelopments, yet retaining the style of an elegant residence, were carried out by the Wielkopolski and the Hapsburg families. Currently the castle is completely renovated and the castle courtyard with its beautiful cloisters delights with its architectural artistry. Since 2005 the old castle has housed the Municipal Museum which has a valuable collection of religious art from the Church of the Holy Cross in Zywiec. There is also an exhibition of outfits from the residents of Zywiec, antique furniture, iconography of the town of Zywiec and memorabilia associated with the Zywiec Hapsburgs. Worth mentioning is a collection of gilded memorabilia (one of the largest in Poland). Worthy of note also are the historic chambers – one is the 19th century Biedermeier salon. There is also a café in the castle and in nearby buildings there are stables with horses and ponies which can be ridden through the historic park. Visitors can also be taken for a ride in a carriage. Municipal Museum in Zywiec (woj. Slaskie) www.muzeum-zywiec.pl