Sokole Hillfort

Sokole Hillfort is the remains of a former stronghold on the summit of the Sokolica rock in Będkowice. The rock rises in the Będkowska Valley in the Olkusz Upland at 425 m above sea level and is the highest rock of the Kraków-Częstochowa Upland (Polish Jura).

A stronghold above the valley

On three sides Sokolica falls away in vertical limestone walls, popular with climbers, which gave natural defence. The stronghold, which according to archaeologists probably existed from the 8th century, was among the most strongly fortified strongholds of the Vistulans. It was accessible only from the east, so a deep dry moat was dug there, with ramparts on both sides. The length of the ramparts is about 100 m, and the difference in height between the bottom of the moat and the top of the inner rampart is about 20 m. The moat and traces of the ramparts are visible to this day.

Research

The first investigations were carried out in 1909 by Leon Kozłowski and Stanisław Jan Czarnowski. Pottery, flint and iron articles and bones of domestic animals were found. The stronghold was in use until the time of Władysław the Elbow-high.

Practical information

• Approach: easiest by a field track from the cemetery in Będkowice.
• In the area are the Nietoperzowa Cave and the Bolechowicki Gorge.
• The rocks are steep, so take care near the edges.