Ritzebüttel Castle

Ritzebüttel Castle in Cuxhaven was the residence of the Hamburg bailiffs, back when Ritzebüttel still belonged to the city of Hamburg. The castle, part of which dates back to the 14th century, is one of the oldest preserved secular buildings of the North German Brick Gothic style in the region and is now open to visitors.

History

Built around 1340, the castle passed to Hamburg in 1394 after a conflict with the Lords of Saxe-Lauenburg. Its strategic location helped Hamburg control the Lower Elbe and defend against North Sea pirates. Over 500 years, Hamburg senators served as bailiffs here, transforming the defensive structure into a representative manor. Though remote from Hamburg, it remained important until 1937, when Cuxhaven was transferred to Prussia. After decades of various uses, the building was renovated and reopened in 1996. Today, it houses a restaurant, exhibition rooms, and a wedding hall.

Architecture

The core of the castle is a 14th-century brick tower with three-meter-thick walls and original Gothic arches. A 17th-century timber extension was later replaced by a Baroque façade. Though most defenses were dismantled, architectural elements from six centuries remain, including ceremonial halls and antique furnishings.

Swiss House & War Memorial

In 1847, a Swiss-style tea house was built in the castle park, later joined by an open-air stage. A war memorial honoring WWI soldiers was added in 1932, modeled after the maritime Kugelbake and updated in 1980.

Address
Schlossgarten 8, Cuxhaven, Germany

Established
c. 1340