The Mystical Castle of Wewelsburg: An Insight Into Germany’s Most Fascinating Monument
Germany is known for its beautiful medieval castles, but none can compare to the iconic Castle of Wewelsburg. Located in the central German town of Büren, the castle is steeped in a rich and mysterious history. From its construction in the early 17th century to its brief rise to notoriety during the Third Reich, the Castle of Wewelsburg has a fascinating story to tell.
The History of Wewelsburg
The Castle of Wewelsburg was constructed in 1603 as the ancestral seat of the Schwanenburg family, who owned the castle until 1713. The Schwanenburgs were an aristocratic family, and the castle was built to reflect their wealth and status. The castle was eventually bought by Prussia in 1713, and it served as a royal residence until the late 19th century.
In 1933, the castle was taken over by the Nazi Party. It was used as a training center for the SS, the Nazi paramilitary organization. During this time, the castle was renovated and expanded, and a large ceremonial hall was built. It was here that Heinrich Himmler, the leader of the SS, held religious ceremonies and rituals.
The castle was abandoned in 1945 and fell into disrepair. In the 1980s, the castle was restored and opened to the public as a museum. Today, the Castle of Wewelsburg is a popular destination for tourists, who come to explore the buildings and learn about its unique history.
Exploring the Castle
The Castle of Wewelsburg is a sprawling complex, featuring a variety of buildings and structures. The main building is the Schwanenburg, which is the original castle built by the Schwanenburg family. The Schwanenburg features a variety of rooms, including the Great Hall and the Knights’ Hall.
The Great Hall is a large, impressive room with a high ceiling and ornate wood furniture. It was used for grand receptions and ceremonies, and remains a popular spot for visitors. The Knights’ Hall is an impressive room with a large fireplace and a vaulted ceiling. It was used for meetings and banquets, and is now open to visitors.
The castle also features a number of other buildings, including the Tower of Power, the SS Barracks, and the SS Chapel. The Tower of Power is a tall tower that was used for rituals and ceremonies performed by the SS. The SS Barracks were used by the SS officers, and the SS Chapel was used for religious ceremonies.
The Castle of Wewelsburg is also home to a number of artifacts and artwork, including a collection of Nazi memorabilia. There is also a museum, which details the history of the castle and the Third Reich.
The Castle of Wewelsburg is a fascinating and mysterious place. It is a testament to Germany’s tumultuous history, and a reminder of the atrocities committed during the Third Reich. Today, it is a popular tourist destination, offering visitors the chance to explore its buildings and learn about its unique history.