TEUTONIC ORDER CASTLES IN THE CHEŁM REGION IN THE LIGHT OF NEW RESEARCH OF SELECTED SUBJECTS
MARCIN WIEWIÓRA
Research on the architecture of castles in Chelmno Land is becoming more popular. This is evidenced by numerous publications both scientific and popular, dedicated to the Teutonic Knights history of architecture in general and especially defense architecture. No systematic archaeological and architectural studies have yet been made. The castles of the Teutonic Knights at Chelmno Land display unique architectural features; their historical and artistic identity distinguishes this region from all the other areas in Poland. A broad, interdisciplinary research program is required, involving a detailed study of the architecture, art, and a study of their construction techniques.
Since 2005, a research program has been under way examining the architecture and archeology of the castles built by the Teutonic Knights at Chełmno Land. (Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Institute of Archaeology, Department of Archaeology of Architecture.)
The aim of the research program was to preserve the remains of both Grudziądz and Wąbrzeźno castles and to initiate a broader discussion about forms and phases of the construction of these facilities. Previous sources of knowledge about these castles came exclusively from historical or iconographical sources. Earlier research programs included two other castles (Radzyń Chelminski and Papowo Biskupie). The research attempted to review arrangements for settlement, layout plans, building forms, etc. and what were the forms of settlements before the arrival of Teutonic Knights.
The aim of this project is to start interdisciplinary studies of the Teutonic castles at Chelmno Land combining history, architecture, art and material culture. An important goal will be to create a professional research program. Research already completed, has revealed new archaeological and architectural findings; this should lead to a new conservation program which must restore ancient monuments and secure exposed walls - those both visible on the surface and those that are under the earth's surface.
Keywords: archaeology, medieval architecture, defence architecture, Teutonic Knights, castles, conservation and preservation of monuments