| In 1377 Grand Master Winrich von Kniprode began the construction of a castle. After the Order’s capital had been moved from Malbork
to Königsberg, Grand Drapier (Quartermaster)
had also the position of a commander of Ryn.
The fortress was of great economic importance.
Fishing fleet, mill, ironworks, huge warehouses
with fish, honey and meat – all these were subordinate to the commander. After 1466 Ryn was incorporated into Teutonic Prussia and from 1525 into the Duchy of Prussia. The castle was rebuilt several times and lost its Gothic appearance. In 1803 it was transformed
into a prison. After World War II the castle was partly reconstructed. | 
