Opole, though less popular, is known for its impressive palaces and residences. One such place is the palace in Kopice, located about 40 km from Opole. Its history dates back to at least the 18th century. In the mid-19th century, it underwent a significant transformation, acquiring a neo-Gothic character with neo-Renaissance elements. Over the years, it has fallen into disrepair, but its appearance is as intriguing as the story of its owner.
Kopice: The Palace of the "Polish Cinderella" Just 40 km from Opole
Joanna Schaffgotsch is often referred to as the "Silesian" or "Polish Cinderella." After her father’s death, Joanna was taken into the home of Karol Godula, the "king of zinc," under the care of a servant working there. Her mother planned to remarry, but Joanna was an obstacle to her plans. Godula, lonely and ill, adopted Joanna and bequeathed his entire estate to her. She was 6 years old when she became responsible for one of the largest fortunes in Upper Silesian history. Karol Godula also ensured Joanna’s safety by appointing guardians in his will. Godula's relatives tried for years to overturn the will, and Joanna’s guardians, fearing for her safety, hid her for several years. In 1858, Joanna Gryczik was granted a noble title by the King of Prussia, enabling her to marry Count Hans Ulrich Schaffgotsch. A year later, the couple purchased the palace in Kopice to live their lives there.
The Palace in Kopice Survived Two Wars, Destroyed by Fire. Can You Visit the Ruins?
In the 1860s, they made extensive changes to the palace. They also created a beautiful garden and a vast, 70-hectare landscape park. After Joanna's death, her family took care of the palace in Kopice. The estate survived two world wars almost unscathed, but a fire on October 7, 1956, devastated it.
Unknown arsonists set the palace on fire and drained the water from the estate’s ponds, significantly hindering firefighters' efforts. The fire marked the beginning of the palace's destruction, which fell into further ruin over the years despite many efforts to preserve it. In early 2022, the palace was purchased by Opole entrepreneur Joachim Wiesiollek. Since the structure is at risk of collapse, it is not open to visitors.
Tourists can only enter the palace grounds during the annual Kopice Palace Meetings held every September. On other days, the palace of the "Polish Cinderella" can only be admired from a distance. However, visitors are welcome to explore the Schaffgotsch family mausoleum in Kopice and the palace park, where attractions such as the Temple of Contemplation and the Prussian Victory Column can still be admired.
