It is one of the most magnificent fortresses of medieval Europe. The residence of the Grand Masters of the Teutonic Order. It is located on the right bank of the Nogat River, in Malbork, Pomeranian Voivodeship. It is the largest and most magnificent castle in the world preserved in its entirety. The entire site covers an area of about 22 hectares. The origins of the castle date back to the second half of the 13th century. From 1309, Malbork was the seat of the Grand Masters of the Teutonic Order and the capital of one of the most powerful states in medieval Europe. During World War II, almost half of the castle was destroyed. Today's structure differs from the original one and is the result of numerous restoration works carried out in the 20th century. Since 1961, the Malbork Castle Museum has been operating in the castle. In 1997, Malbork Castle was added to the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage List.