The ruins of Czorsztyn Castle, a 13th-century stronghold, were erected on a hill that is difficult to access and has natural fortifications that increase its defensive qualities. The building has a rich history, as evidenced by its former functions: control of a trade and diplomatic route, protection of the border between Poland and Hungary, a rest stop for travelling officials and a shelter during hostilities. The castle’s time of splendour came to an end in the 18th century, when it was ravaged by Cossack troops and damaged by a lightning strike and a fire that destroyed the roof, which was never rebuilt. Its past glory and the romantic beauty of the castle turning into ruins have inspired many paintings, literary works, and musical pieces. Currently, you can visit the ruins of the upper and middle castle, the Green, and the Renaissance Baranowski Tower. The picturesque panorama of the Spisz Pieniny Mountains, the Tatra Mountains and the Czorsztyn Reservoir can be seen from the terraces of the upper castle. The Baranowski Tower offers a beautiful view of Podhale, a fragment of the Czorsztyn Pieniny Mountains, and the Gorce Mountains. In addition, the tower houses an exhibition of reproductions of postcards from the Pieniny National Park collection. In the upper castle, in the so-called ‘kitchen’, is an exhibition presenting the history of the Czorsztyn starostwo and the castle. The castle’s small lapidarium is also well worth seeing.