Stadthagen Castle
Description
Stadthagen Castle, the seat of the ruling Counts of Schaumburg, was built between 1535 and 1539 by Count Adolf XIII (later Archbishop-Elector of Cologne) on the site of a 13th-century water castle. The new residence, designed by master builder Jörg Unkair, is a square four-wing complex in Weser Renaissance style, notable as one of the earliest and most influential examples in Lower Saxony. Originally a pure residence without defensive function, it housed the Schaumburg government until 1608, later serving as a widow’s seat and crown prince’s residence.
The castle retains Renaissance features such as ornate gables, a courtyard stair tower, and Flemish sculptor Arend Robin’s decorative chimneys. Outbuildings include a former stables, tithe barn, and other Renaissance structures forming a historic ensemble.
Since 1919 the property has been publicly owned, now serving as Stadthagen’s tax office. Renovations in the late 20th and early 21st centuries restored the sandstone façade and interior features. Tours are available by prior arrangement.
Address
Obernstraße 33A, Stadthagen, Germany
Established
1535-1539