In the heart of the Opole Voivodeship, in the village of Rozkochów in Krapkowice County, stands an extraordinary monument — an 18th-century Baroque palace. This charming site is a unique highlight on the region’s tourist map, attracting history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and lovers of beautiful landscapes alike. The Palace in Rozkochów is an ideal destination both for family outings and for discovering the lesser-known corners of Opole Silesia.

The first mentions of the village date back to 1393, when Mikołaj of Rozkochów was recorded. Later documents from 1481 and 1489 mention Jan Rozkochowski, a witness to transactions concerning the Prudnik mayoralty. By the 16th century, Rozkochów was home to notable noble families, including Sebastian von Stolz, a participant in the Hungarian campaign against the Turkish forces.

The first grand manor in Rozkochów was likely built in the mid-17th century, designed in the Renaissance style and surrounded by a formal garden. In 1734, when the Pückler family owned the estate, it was expanded and remodeled in the Baroque style.

In 1825, the palace came into the possession of Carl Philipp von Harrach. After the untimely death of his wife Maria Teresa Sedlnitzky, who passed away at age 24, Carl left Rozkochów and moved to Wilków near Namysłów, although he continued to oversee the estate’s management.

From 1851, the estate belonged to the von Seherr-Thoss family, who played a significant role in Rozkochów’s history. Until 1893, it was managed by Roger von Seherr-Thoss, followed by his son Hermann. After renovations were completed in 1909, Hermann settled in the palace with his wife Muriel White, an American. According to witnesses, in March 1943, when the Gestapo arrived at the castle, Muriel attempted suicide by jumping from a window of the residence. As an American citizen, she feared political repression.

In the 20th century, the palace’s fate changed dramatically. In the 1930s, a military auxiliary airfield was built on the grounds adjacent to the park. During World War II, the palace housed a Reich Labor Service camp for young women. After the war, Polish administrative authorities took over the palace, incorporating it into the structures of the State Agricultural Farm, and later the Moszna Stud Farm. For decades, the building was used as housing for workers and as social rooms. An interesting fact is that in the 1950s, Stanisław Szozda — a future Olympic cyclist — lived on the palace’s first floor in the northeast wing.

In the early 1990s, the property was purchased by artist Marian Medwecki. However, it was only after Grzegorz Wnęk acquired the palace in 2021 that hopes arose to restore its former glory. Currently, research is underway regarding the building’s structure, architecture, and interior design, alongside planning work. The courtyard’s cobblestone pavement has been uncovered, and previously bricked-up passageways reopened. Upcoming phases include renovation of the palace, garden, and park, with plans to convert the site into a hotel with a spa center and restaurant.

The palace once housed a unique cast iron fireplace plate from 1702, depicting the biblical scene of Solomon’s Judgment. It now adorns the exterior wall of the church in Rozkochów.

In the abandoned walls of the palace, a White Lady has been said to appear — the spirit of Countess Harrach, who tragically lost her child during pregnancy. A few years later, to her unexpected joy, she gave birth to a son, but fate proved cruel. Just two years after this happy event, she died young. Since then, her spirit has not left the palace, wandering its corridors and halls in search of peace. At night, when darkness envelops the ruins, her figure can still be seen — white as snow, full of sadness and mystery. 

In the summer months, the palace in Rozkochów becomes a cultural hub where visitors can participate in a variety of events. Art exhibitions — including painting, sculpture, and photography — as well as vernissages, concerts, and festivals take place on the palace grounds and in its picturesque surroundings, lively events that attract numerous visitors.

The Art Cafe, located in one of the most beautiful corners of the palace garden, invites guests to relax with a cup of the esteemed Count August’s coffee, complemented by aromatic cakes prepared by his lovely wife Luiza. For those seeking unique souvenirs, the Flagolie shop offers exceptional candles and cosmetics that delight with both aesthetics and fragrance. Moreover, these products come from the exclusive brand owned by Grzegorz Wnęk.

For guests wishing to stay longer in this charming place, the palace offers rental of recreational cottages — the Count’s Cottages. Situated close to the palace, surrounded by Baroque architecture and lush greenery, they provide the perfect setting for rest in a peaceful atmosphere.