Radzwill

Radzwill is a surname of Polish and Lithuanian origin, most famously associated with a princely family. The Radziwiłł (Polish: Radziwiłł, Lithuanian: Radvilas) family was one of the most powerful and wealthy noble families in the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. Their influence spanned centuries, and they held numerous significant political and military positions. The family's origins can be traced back to the 15th century, with notable figures such as Mikołaj Radziwiłł the Black and Mikołaj Radziwiłł the Red playing crucial roles in the political landscape of the time.

The Radziwiłł family's power was solidified through strategic marriages and the acquisition of vast estates, including several prominent castles and palaces throughout the Commonwealth. Their legacy is also intertwined with cultural patronage, with members supporting art, architecture, and education. The family's prominence continued through the centuries, with various branches holding titles and influence in different regions. The surname Radzwill, or its variations, continues to be found in Poland, Lithuania, and other parts of the world, a reminder of the historical significance of this noble lineage.