Vetschau Castle
Description
Vetschau Castle is a Renaissance-style building located in Vetschau, Brandenburg. It is a protected historic monument and currently houses the town administration.
The three-story castle, built from 1538, surrounds a small courtyard and features a mix of Renaissance and 19th-century architectural elements, including a mansard roof, arcades on wooden columns, and an octagonal tower added in the 18th century. Inside, one room retains a 16th-century vaulted ceiling, while the richly decorated 'Knight’s Hall' with stucco ceiling and fireplace dates from around 1880. A grand staircase leads to it from the courtyard.
Originally a medieval moated castle, the site was transformed into a Renaissance palace by Eustachius von Schlieben in 1540. The estate remained in noble hands until 1913, undergoing various renovations over centuries. Major changes occurred around 1900, including the remodeling of the courtyard and park in English landscape style.
After passing to the city of Vetschau in 1920, the castle became the town hall. During the DDR period, it was used as an agricultural institute, with some alterations made to its interior and facade.
Since reunification, the castle has undergone extensive restoration. The roof and facade were renewed, historic arcades reopened, and the Knight’s Hall restored to its 19th-century appearance. Today, alongside the town offices, the castle includes a small local museum and serves as a venue for weddings and cultural events.