Schloss Schönstein
Detailed description
On a rock at the mouth of the Elbbach into the Sieg stands the historically significant Schönstein Castle. First mentioned in a document in 1255, it is currently privately owned by the House of Hatzfeldt-Wildenburg. Since the castle is inhabited, interior visits are not possible. However, it is a visual delight from the outside.
The main building of Schönstein Castle is roughly triangular in shape and is a typical corner castle, where the buildings are arranged around a courtyard. From the Middle Ages to the present day, it has been built upon or restored, making the construction history quite complicated.
From the older northern wing made of rubble stone, the brick facades created at the end of the 16th century stand out significantly.
Schönstein Castle was first mentioned in a document in 1255. From 1281, the castle Sconensteyne served as a pledge object for the Archdiocese of Cologne. In 1589, Hermann von Hatzfeldt-Werther received the castle in recognition of his services. By then, the castle had suffered greatly. In 1594, Hermann von Hatzfeldt-Werther estimated the costs for work on the castle at 16,000 guilders. During the Thirty Years' War, the castle was occupied, looted, and set on fire by Swedish troops, but was rebuilt at the instigation of Wilhelm von Hatzfeld.
Today, Schönstein Castle serves as the administrative seat of the Hatzfeldt-Wildenburg administration and the residence of the Count Hatzfeldt family, which is why the interiors cannot be visited. Every year, a serenade with the Mainz Chamber Orchestra and a jazz concert with the jazz band Schräglage are held at Schönstein Castle.
As part of the tour "The Chapel Path," the castle chapel at Schönstein Castle can be visited. You can book the tour at the Wisserland Tourist Information in the RegioBahnhof in Wissen (02742/2686; info@wisserlandtouristik.de).
Brief description
Castle complex from 1255 in private ownership of the House of Hatzfeldt-Wildenburg
Arrival Information
Access to the castle area is only allowed on foot, as the castle and castle courtyard are inhabited. Parking is available in the centre of Wissen-Schönstein (Schlossstraße).
Included services
As part of the guided hike "The Chapel Trail", which can be booked at the Wisserland Tourist Information (Tel. 02742 2686), the Schönstein Castle Chapel is visited, among other places.
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Contact and directions
Schlosshof
57537 Wissen