The Royal Castle in Niepołomice, built at the edge of the wilderness in the mid-14^th century by King Casimir the Great initially played a defensive role. In the process of refurbishing the Royal Castle, the last of the Jagiellonian dynasty created a magnificent Renaissance residence that came to be known as ‘the second Wawel’. Another floor and galleries were added to the building. Rooms were decorated with elaborately sculpted wooden ceilings, tiled stoves and fireplaces. Gardens were established next to the southern wing. Niepołomice became the favourite place for Polish kings to rest and relax. Hunts were organised in the nearby forests and feasts, and tournaments and shows took place in the castle. Wars and partitions put an end to the splendour of the kings’ residence. Sacked during the Swedish invasions and used as military barracks and a warehouse during the partitions, the castle gradually fell into disrepair. In the 20^th century, it served a variety of public functions. It was restored to its former glory after several years (1991-2007) of top-to-bottom renovation work initiated by the Niepołomice authorities. Today, the historical interiors house the Museum, a Conference Centre including a hotel and a restaurant where exhibitions, concerts, balls, congresses and business meetings are held.