Bevern Castle
Description
Schloss Bevern is a Renaissance castle located in Bevern, Lower Saxony. Built between 1603 and 1612 by Statius von Münchhausen, it is considered a major example of Weser Renaissance architecture. The castle replaced a medieval fortified manor once owned by the Lords of Bevern.
The structure consists of four wings around a square courtyard and is surrounded by a moat. Originally, it included several farm buildings and gardens.
Statius von Münchhausen, a wealthy nobleman and entrepreneur, secured the estate in the late 16th century after the extinction of the Bevern family. He transformed it into a prestigious residence, using craftsmen from the Weser region. Financial troubles in 1618 forced him into partial surrender of the estate, though he remained under ducal oversight until his death in 1633.
In the 17th century, the castle became a ducal residence for Ferdinand Albrecht I, founding the Braunschweig-Bevern line. He enriched the estate with a theater, art collection, and chapel. The family used the castle as a residence until the late 18th century.
During the 19th century, the castle was repurposed multiple times—first as a correctional facility, then as a children's home (Wilhelmsstift). Fires and uprisings marked this period, but the estate remained in institutional use.
In the 20th century, it served briefly as a Nazi sports school and Wehrmacht barracks, then became a refugee camp after WWII. In 1957, the municipality of Bevern acquired the property. Parts were used as housing, storage, and a school.
Since the 1970s, the castle has been restored and converted into a cultural center and museum. It now hosts concerts, exhibitions, and historical displays. As of 2008, it also features the Renaissance Experience Center, celebrating its 400-year history with educational programs and special exhibitions.