The Palace in Bożków, also known as Bożków Castle, is a striking historical edifice located in the Lower Silesia Province of Poland. Built in the 16th century by Count von Magnis, this magnificent structure holds a rich history intertwined with nobility, architectural grandeur, and a series of unfortunate declines. Today, it stands as a fragile relic of its former glory, beckoning for attention and restoration.

Summary:

Location: Bożków, Lower Silesia, Poland.
History: Originally constructed in the 16th century by Count von Magnis; passed through various noble families including the von Raueck and von Götzen families.
Architectural Evolution: Transformed from a late Renaissance manor to a Baroque palace; underwent major renovations in 1787-1791 and again after a fire in 1870.
Cultural Significance: Hosted esteemed guests like John Quincy Adams and Prussian royalty.
Current Status: The palace is derelict and on the market for PLN 6.7 million with significant deterioration in its condition.
Historical Recognition: Listed as a monument since 1981, but its historical value is under threat due to neglect and disrepair.

The Palac w Bożkowie exemplifies a captivating blend of history, architecture, and culture, yet it desperately needs a passionate owner to restore it to its former glory.

**Pałac w Bożkowie. ©Bjørn Joachimsen.**

Historical Overview

The history of Bożków Palace begins around 1520 when the estate was owned by the von Raueck family. After the conclusion of the Czech-Palatinate War in the early 17th century, the property was confiscated and handed over to the Emperor’s physician, Caspar Jäschke von Eisenhut. Shortly thereafter, it fell into the possession of the Jesuit order, who sold it to Johann Georg von Götzen. Under his ownership, significant expansions and renovations took place, substantially enhancing the structure.

In 1780, after the childless death of Count von Götzen, the estate was inherited by his nephew, Count Anton Alexander von Magnis, marking the beginning of a new chapter in its history. The current form of the palace we see today was mainly constructed between 1787 and 1791, transforming the earlier buildings into a more grandiose establishment.

Architectural Evolution

The original structure was a late Renaissance manor, reconstructed into a Baroque-style estate in 1676. By 1800, a park with artificial ruins, gravestones, and coats of arms from the 1500s and 1600s was established to the north of the palace, accompanied by a forest lodge. An observation tower was subsequently constructed atop Grodziszcze mountain in 1813.

A devastating fire in 1870 led to the final major reconstruction of the palace. The renovations were completed in 1871 under the supervision of Count Wilhelm von Magnis, resulting in a neorenaissance aesthetic. The façade was later remodelled in a classicist style in 1930, adding to the palace’s diverse architectural narrative.

Despite the tumultuous history, the palace maintained its status as a prestigious venue, hosting notable figures such as John Quincy Adams and the Kings of Prussia, Frederick William III and Frederick William IV.

Decline and Modern Challenges

The end of World War II saw significant changes for the Palace in Bożków, as it was nationalised and the von Magnis family displaced. The estate was repurposed to house various agricultural technical schools. From December 1951, it served as the Training Centre for Agricultural Farm Managers, transitioning through different educational uses until 2002.

Despite attempts at preservation, including a major renovation in 1973 and conservation work between 1975 and 1979, the latter part of the 20th century saw the palace deteriorate significantly.

In 2005, the Kłodzko district sold the estate to Fenelon Group for PLN 2.5 million. However, the group failed to undertake necessary renovations, leading to further degradation. The palace eventually changed hands again in 2010 and was opened to the public in 2016, yet it continues to suffer from neglect.

It is currently not possible for the public to enter the palace or its gardens.

A Cultural Landmark in Film

Despite its decline, the Palace in Bożków has not been entirely forgotten. The picturesque architecture and evocative interiors have made it a popular filming location. Notable productions that have utilized the palace's backdrop include:

Shivers
Legend
Brigitte Bardot the Marvelous
It's Dark, Almost Night
The Lords of Adventures

Additionally, scenes for the series "Ze Network," starring American actor David Hasselhoff, were filmed at the palace, showcasing its enduring appeal as a cultural artifact.

Current Status and Future Prospects

As of 2023, the Palace in Bożków is once again on the market, priced at PLN 6.7 million. The interior retains some preservation, featuring oak-paneled corridors, decorative fireplaces, and frescoed ballrooms. However, extensive restoration is required to counteract years of neglect.

While some architectural features and layouts remain impressive, structural integrity and aesthetic details have suffered, raising the question of whether it can reclaim its former splendor under new ownership.

A recent court ruling against the palace owner for neglecting necessary restoration work has thrown further uncertainty into its future. The palace, once a jewel of Lower Silesia, continues to embody the story of architectural and historical magnificence, juxtaposed with a tale of decline and loss.

A state of dispair

Though the Palace in Bożków stands in a state of disrepair, its historical and architectural significance cannot be overstated. It remains a captivating symbol of the region's past, waiting for a dedicated caretaker to restore it to its former glory. The hope is that this national treasure can be rejuvenated.

All photographs in this article are created by Bjørn Joachimsen in 2022 and 2024, using a Gibellini GP810 large format camera and Ilford HP5+ 8x10-inch film.