Controversial and epic: The secret castle rising in the woods

Hidden deep in a protected forest, a colossal medieval-style castle is taking shape in Poland—and no, it’s not a movie set.

The true ownership of Stobnica Castle remains a mystery. Officially, it’s being developed by a private investment group linked to a Polish businessman and his family. The estimated cost of over 400 million złoty (around $90 million) has been privately funded, with no public money involved—though speculation continues about the project’s real backers and future purpose. Photo: SZ Archi, Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

With 15 floors, a 70-meter tower, and a moat around an artificial island, Stobnica Castle looks like something out of a fantasy epic. But behind the stone walls lies a real-world saga of court battles, environmental outrage, and whispers of luxury secrets. Is it a private residence? A future fortress hotel? No one knows for sure. What’s certain is: this is one of Europe’s most jaw-dropping (and controversial) construction projects in decades.

Artificial island

A towering medieval-style castle under construction deep in a Polish forest has captured both national attention and legal scrutiny. The massive stone structure is being built on an artificial island in the middle of a protected forest area—but after years of legal battles, a Polish court has now ruled that construction can move forward.

A castle in the wild

Located near the village of Stobnica in western Poland, the castle is one of the largest private construction projects in modern Polish history. Inspired by medieval architecture, the structure stretches over 200 meters in length, includes a 70-meter-high tower, and rises across 15 above-ground floors. The design includes courtyards, moats, and walls meant to look like a fortress from centuries ago—but it was started in 2015.

Built inside a protected forest

The most controversial aspect of the project is its location: inside a Natura 2000 protected area, meant to preserve wildlife habitats and biodiversity. Environmentalists have strongly criticized the project, arguing that the massive structure and its construction activities disturb local ecosystems and violate EU environmental rules.

Although local officials had granted permits early on, investigations later revealed irregularities in how permissions were issued. Several individuals involved in the project faced legal action.

Still, after years of court appeals, Poland’s highest administrative court recently confirmed that the original building permit remains valid.

Mystery around ownership and purpose

Despite its castle-like appearance, developers claim the building is intended as a residential complex—but the project's sheer scale has fueled speculation. Some believe it could be transformed into a luxury hotel, a private retreat for elites, or even a themed attraction. Its estimated cost is over 400 million złoty (roughly $90 million), adding to public curiosity.

Can you visit?

As of 2025, the castle’s exterior is nearly finished, with interior work still ongoing. Visitors cannot enter the building itself, but a public educational path has been created around the site, allowing people to view the project and learn about its design and natural surroundings.

Facts - Stobnica Castle

• Location: Stobnica, western Poland

• Started: 2015

• Architect: Waldemar Szeszuła

• Height: Approx. 70 meters

• Length: Approx. 200 meters

• Floors: 15 above ground

• Style: Medieval revival

• Purpose: Claimed to be residential

• Cost: 400 million złoty ($90 million)

• Controversy: Built in protected Natura 2000 area

• Current status: Exterior mostly finished, interior still in progress