The Palace in Bożków ranks among the most important residences in the Kłodzko region, yet it is also a highly problematic property that shares the fate of other Lower Silesian estates remaining in private hands. This 16th-century monument has retained its appearance and rich interior décor to this day, yet its future hangs in the balance. History is full of cases where such buildings have fallen victim to vandals or arsonists. The palace’s complex legal situation prevents effective action from being taken, yet the Lower Silesian Provincial Conservator of Monuments is not giving up and is fighting against the owner’s inaction.
The Palace in Bożków – the beginning
The first estate in Bożków (then known as Eckersdorf in German) was established in the 16th century as a manor belonging to the German von Raueck family. Following the wars of the 17th century, the estate passed into the hands of successive owners, including an imperial physician and the Jesuit Order. An important stage in the estate’s development came with its acquisition by the von Götzen family, who shaped its fundamental character. Towards the end of the 18th century, the estate was inherited by the Counts von Magnis, who quickly expanded it and transformed it into a stately, aristocratic residence.
Reconstructions and development of the Lower Silesian residence
The largest reconstruction in the history of the Bożków estate took place between 1787 and 1791, when the former brick manor house was transformed into a magnificent palace with a Baroque-Classical façade. During the extension, side wings were added to the building, amongst other features. In the 19th century, the complex was expanded to include a landscape park with artificial ruins and a viewing tower. Following a tragic fire in 1870, the residence was further extended. It was then given the almost fairy-tale features of the French Neo-Renaissance, and towers and new wings were added to its structure. At the same time, the character of the interiors was completely transformed. The architects created beautiful chambers in the palace, adorned with stucco, panelling, fireplaces and impressive parquet floors. The whole was complemented by fanciful furniture and works of art. The palace in Bożków was more beautiful than ever during this period. In the 1930s, however, Count Ferdinand von Magnis decided to simplify his residence. During the modernist refurbishment, some of the dormers were removed, the gables were modified, and the façades were stripped of their former splendour. This final refurbishment gave the building an appearance similar to what it looks like today.
Bożków Palace – architecture
Today, the palace presents a complex composition resulting from its rich history and, consequently, the overlapping of successive phases of reconstruction. The main body originates from the former manor house, to which side wings were later added. The whole structure is dominated by towers and turrets, as well as high roofs from various periods. The façades still boast a wealth of detail, despite the simplifying modernisation carried out almost 100 years ago. The interiors were originally distinguished by fabulously opulent décor, whilst fragments of the state rooms, dining rooms and private quarters of the von Magnis family have survived to this day.
The later history of the von Magnis family’s residence
In the 19th century, the estate in Bożków was considered one of the largest and most magnificent in the entire Kłodzko County, a fact reflected in its fame and prestige. The palace was visited by distinguished guests, including the future US President John Quincy Adams and Prussian monarchs from the ruling Hohenzollern dynasty. The end of the centuries-long prosperity of the von Magnis family’s estates and their activities in this region came in May 1945. Just before the front arrived, all the residents left their palace and fled westwards, fearing reprisals from Soviet soldiers. The abandoned building became state property and was adapted for various purposes, mainly related to agricultural education. In the 1970s, the dilapidated monument underwent renovation, during which its most valuable elements and decorations were restored. At the turn of the 20th and 21st centuries, however, it was abandoned once again, marking the beginning of a sad period of gradual decline.
Problems with the owner and the actions of the DWKZ
In 2005, the palace was sold to a private investor. That was when the serious problems began. Subsequent changes of ownership failed to bring about the desired improvement in the building’s condition. Today, the property remains in the hands of one of the companies, yet no one is taking any real or effective action to at least protect the building from further deterioration. This inaction has led to repeated interventions by the authorities. The final straw came in April 2024, when the Lower Silesian Provincial Conservator of Monuments secured the conviction of the palace’s current owner. The court sentenced him to eight months’ suspended imprisonment and a fine of 50,000 zlotys for allowing the historic building to fall into such a tragic state.
The battle for the Palace in Bożków continues
Years of neglect have left the Palace in Bożków in ruins. The damage is visible not only on the facades and roof, but also inside. Many magnificent interiors have been devastated and looted. In 2025, conservation officer Daniel Gibski went a step further and initiated proceedings to declare the owner bankrupt, which could pave the way for a change in the property’s management. Possible scenarios include the sale of the palace to a new investor or its takeover by the state. Whatever happens, we must remain confident in the effectiveness of the Lower Silesian Provincial Conservator of Monuments and the rescue of this gem of our heritage.
Source: zabytek.pl, klodzko24.pl
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