Zamek w Stobnicy, a castle shrouded in controversy, stands out not because of its architecture but due to its location. This modern yet medieval-styled castle has stirred debate among environmentalists and locals alike. Is this extraordinary structure open for visitors? What is its history? These questions and more are answered below.
The Controversial Location
The greatest controversy surrounding Zamek w Stobnicy stems from its location. The castle was built on the edge of the Noteć Forest, within the Natura 2000 protected area. This has naturally drawn a significant amount of criticism. However, the project also has a notable number of supporters, primarily from the village of Stobnica and the Oborniki municipality.
Compared to historical Polish castles like Zamek Książ, built in the 13th century, and Zamek Czocha, Zamek w Stobnicy is relatively young, with construction starting in 2015. Despite its modern origins, it is designed in a medieval style, often compared to the grandeur of Malbork Castle.
Architectural Features
Situated on an artificially created island on the edge of the Noteć Forest, Zamek w Stobnicy has 14 above-ground floors and one underground level, featuring a tower that reaches several meters high. By the first half of 2022, much of the structure was clad in a sand-colored facade, further enhancing its medieval appearance.
Despite its impressive appearance, Zamek w Stobnicy is currently not open to the public. Construction is ongoing, and access to the site is restricted by a fence topped with barbed wire, with security personnel present. Amateur explorers occasionally attempt to enter the site, but such activities are illegal. For now, the castle can only be admired from a distance.
Future Access and Tickets
It remains uncertain whether tickets for Zamek w Stobnicy will ever be sold. The investor, Poznań-based company D.J.T., has not revealed the intended use of the building. Speculation suggests it might become a luxury apartment complex or hotel, given the area’s attractiveness for tourism. In 2022, reports emerged that the building might combine residential apartments with a hotel section, but until an official announcement is made, the future accessibility of this extraordinary structure remains unknown.
Stobnica is a small village in the Oborniki municipality, located in the Greater Poland Voivodeship. To reach the site, head towards Oborniki. From Poznań, take road 92, followed by expressway S11 and road 11. From Piła, take road 11 to Oborniki, then follow the road from Oborniki to Wronki, which runs along the Warta River.
Viewing the Castle
Currently, the castle can only be viewed from a distance. The ground-level view offers only a glimpse of the structure as the investment site is surrounded by a dense forest, blocking closer access. Entry to the site is strictly prohibited, making a visit to Stobnica potentially disappointing for those hoping for a closer look.
The castle gained public attention in 2018 when the project was revealed, though its history began three years earlier when the Oborniki County Governor issued a building permit.
Controversial Construction
Initial photos of the monumental building appeared in the summer of 2018, attracting media and public attention not only for its original medieval-inspired design but also for its controversial location within the Noteć Forest, a Natura 2000 site. Environmentalists argued that such a large-scale project should not be conducted in this protected area.
In 2018, the Central Anti-Corruption Bureau began investigating the project, followed by the prosecutor’s office. Charges were eventually brought against six individuals related to the project, with one of the most serious allegations being the initiation of construction despite regulations protecting the Natura 2000 area.
Despite the controversy, the governor, Łukasz Mikołajczyk, did not revoke the building permit, which led to his dismissal in late 2020 at the request of Minister Mariusz Kamiński. This decision suggested that construction might be halted or even that the castle could be demolished, but work on the site has continued uninterrupted.
Conclusion
Zamek w Stobnicy remains an impressive yet contentious landmark. Its medieval appearance and controversial location have sparked debate and interest. While its future as a public attraction is uncertain, the castle’s story continues to unfold, capturing the fascination of many. Whether it will open its doors to visitors remains to be seen, but for now, Zamek w Stobnicy stands as a modern marvel with a medieval soul.
