Nörvenich Castle

Nörvenich, Germany

The Schloss Nörvenich was established in around 1400 by Wilhelm von Vlatten and was remodeled on numerous occasions over the centuries.

In the 15th century, the property fell through marriage to Konrad Scheiffart von Merode-Bornheim. Wilhelm Scheiffart von Merode and his wife Agnes von Bylandt enlarged the house in the middle of the 16th century to the West Wing. At the end of the 16th century, the castle fell through marriage to Baron Johann Otto von Gymnich, whose family remained in possession of it until the 19th century. It then passed to Count Wolff-Metternich von Gymnich, and became known for a period as Schloss Gymnich.

Just before the Second World War, the schloss was taken over by non-aristocratic owners, and since that time it has repeatedly changed hands. The sculptor Rückriem lived and worked here from 1963 to 1971, and several Canalbums were recorded here in the late 1960s and early 1970s including Soundtracks and Tago Mago; the band moved out of the castle in late 1971. The building now houses the Museum of European Art.

In 1982, there were unearthed the remains of an earlier fortress dating to around 1350, and medieval pottery. This earlier structure is believed to have been demolished down to the foundation in 1400 to enable the construction of a new, larger building.

The current two-storey mansion dates to the 18th century, and stands on a high basement. It has a heavy tiled hipped roof and dormers and Gothic brickwork. Around 1950, the greater part of the roof collapsed, and the building underwent extensive restoration. A number of rooms feature richly designed stucco ceilings in the Regency style, with allegorical figures and the arms of the former aristocratic owners commonplace.

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Details

Founded: 1400
Category: Castles and fortifications in Germany
Historical period: Habsburg Dynasty (Germany)

More Information

en.wikipedia.org

Rating

4.2/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Rene Schmigelski (10 months ago)
My visit to Nörvenich Castle was an enriching and remarkable experience in every respect. I would particularly like to highlight the impressive art exhibition by Arno Breker, which offers a deep insight into the work and artistic genius of the sculptor. The exhibits are diverse and allow the viewer to experience and photograph the artworks up close, making it a rare and valuable opportunity for a museum visit. The entrance fee of 9 euros per person is more than justified for this comprehensive and well-curated exhibition. Another very special highlight of the visit was the personal welcome from the owner of the castle, a highly educated and charming gentleman of around 80 years old. He welcomed us with great warmth and gave us a unique and unforgettable look into the past through his first-hand stories about important historical figures that he knew personally. His anecdotes and his deep knowledge gave the visit a very special touch that went far beyond the usual level of a museum visit. I strongly recommend Nörvenich Castle to all those who value an interest in art, history and personal encounters with a unique contemporary witness. A visit that will be remembered for a long time and enrich the mind.
M. M (11 months ago)
We actually wanted to go into the museum, but an older gentleman came out of the door and asked if we wanted to go in. He didn't understand our confirmation at all, I actually suspect that he has difficulty hearing, when we asked again whether we could go into the museum he complained that you can't maintain a castle just by looking at it and that we should leave immediately. So we did, the whole thing was a bit embarrassing.
Cumali Onal (16 months ago)
It is the symbol of Norvenich, but at least its garden should be open to the public.
Ay Doubleyou (4 years ago)
Nice castle. Private property. Used for charity events, registry office and celebrations in the summer months!
Joachim Walter (4 years ago)
“Yoo Doo Right“ ;-)
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