The Renaissance defensive castle in Szymbark is a prime example of a Polish castle. It served both as a noble residence and a stronghold. It is distinguished from other buildings of this type by its unique architectural shape inspired by Italian design, an extensive defence system and its picturesque location in the Low Beskids. It was built in 1530–1600 as the seat of the Gładysz family and was inhabited until the end of the 18th century. After that, the building gradually fell into ruin. After many years of renovation, it was opened to the public at the beginning of the 21st century. Built on a rectangular plan with 4 towers, the castle is situated on an embankment on the Ropa River. Two basement levels are crowned by a roof parapet with the ‘sgraffito’ decoration covering the bath-type roof. The defence system of the castle consisted of corner towers, embrasures in the roof parapet and a drawbridge over the moat leading to the only entrance. Inside, two rooms perpendicularly adjoin the hallway on the ground floor. A window recess is visible by the stairs leading to the cellars; the moat used to be defended from there. The original entrance door is displayed on the wall and display panels present archives and photographs. The vaulted ceiling was cut through to create a modern staircase leading to the first floor.