The Old Castle occupies a dramatic bluff above the Nioman river at the heart of Hrodna's old town. The site was first fortified in the 11th century and the present structure largely dates from the reign of Stefan Batory in the late 16th century, who rebuilt it as a Renaissance palace. The current buildings include a Gothic hall from Batory's time, later Baroque additions, and a museum covering the castle's long history — from its origins as a stronghold of Black Ruthenian princes through the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth period and beyond.
The museum inside has archaeological finds from the site, medieval weaponry, and exhibits on the city's history. The bluff itself offers excellent views over the river and the old town. The castle is at its most atmospheric in the late afternoon when the light falls across the river valley below.