Discover the oldest moated castle in Westphalia: Steinfurt Castle!

Discover the oldest moated castle in Westphalia: Steinfurt Castle!

The Burgsteinfurt moated castle, also known as Steinfurt Castle, is a true jewel of history, perched in North Rhine-Westphalia, right between a charming town center and a former amusement park. With its romantic view surrounded by water bodies and lush greenery, it not only attracts history buffs but also nature lovers and photography enthusiasts. Loud calf The castle has a remarkable architecture that combines influences from Romanesque, Rococo and Classicism.

The castle complex dates back to 1129 and is therefore considered the oldest moated castle in Westphalia. It stands on a circular island and is surrounded by the Steinfurter Aa, which gives it a very special atmosphere. The impressive three building complexes - Upper Castle, Lower Castle and Castle Mill - provide a look into the building's diverse architectural history. The builder, Rudolf II of Stenvorde, nobleman of Steinfurt, set the course, but the castle has gone through many changes since it was built, including destruction and reconstruction. Wikipedia informed that it has undergone numerous renovations over the centuries, particularly by Countess Walburg von Brederode in the 16th century and by the architectural foresight of Franz Anton Nordhoff in the late 19th century.

A place of discovery

The castle is now privately owned and unfortunately it is not possible to visit the interior. But the outdoor areas are a popular destination for walks and offer a wealth of opportunities for discovery. The gatehouse in particular has established itself as a popular photo motif. In the immediate vicinity of the castle there are other sights that invite you to visit: the historic town center with its picturesque old town streets, many cozy restaurants and the Old Town Hall, which is also home to the oldest free-standing concert hall in Europe. The concert gallery invites you to be enchanted by classical music.

In addition, the Steinfurter Bagno, a former amusement park, is now a beautiful natural recreation area with adventurous paths and a ruined island that invites you to linger. The castle is also part of the popular 100 Castles Route in Münsterland, which takes visitors to over 100 palaces, castles and mansions. Raesfeld Castle nearby with its zoo is particularly important.

The history of moated castles

Moated castles are not just a regional phenomenon; they are found primarily in the northern German lowlands. Naturally, they offer special protection through watercourses, lakes or swamps and are often equipped with artificial moats. Historically, the development of moated castles is closely linked to regional conditions. As part of its long building history, Burgsteinfurt Castle not only served as a residence, but was also an important defense point. Medieval lexicon explains that the geometry of the castles in Saxony, which includes this moated castle, varied, with many square buildings being built in the area, while Steinfurt Castle's round building is an exception. This is a testament to contemporary architecture and the desire to combine both aesthetics and defense.

In summary, the Burgsteinfurt moated castle is not only a historical monument, but also a place for relaxation and cultural development. Whether strolling through the extensive outdoor areas or exploring the history, there is something for everyone to discover here!