Hint / Advice
The outdoor area of the castle can be visited from Monday to Friday from 08:00 AM to 06:00 PM.On weekends, visiting the outdoor area is only possible as part of a city tour.
Detailed description
Above the rooftops of the city, at the peak of the mountain cone "Hagenberg," shines the characteristic landmark in yellow splendor: the baroque Hachenburg Castle. Behind the majestic appearance of the magnificent baroque building lies a moving history that has profoundly shaped the character of the city.
From Trade Routes to Hagenberg
Its origins are found at a starting point whose historical significance was not yet recognizable. Due to the geographical proximity of the trade routes Cologne-Frankfurt and Cologne-Leipzig, around the year 1200, the idea of a castle was manifested on a small basalt cone in the Westerwald. And although strategic location and panorama were initially meant to justify the construction site of the castle, it was likely a bit of prestige and the claim to power of Count Heinrich II of Sayn that initiated the construction of Hagenberg Castle. After its construction, however, it was treated rather neglectfully and was to serve merely as a secondary residence for the count. Over the years, it developed into the main residence and center of power of the count's house. This was highlighted by the stays of renowned personalities such as Kings Adolf of Nassau and Ludwig of Bavaria around the year 1300, marking the beginning of the history of Hagenberg.
Hachenburg Castle: yesterday and today
After several changes of ownership and a major fire in 1654, the castle was destroyed, and the foundation stone for the face of the castle was laid. In 1717, the castle lord of Kirchberg initiated the conversion into a baroque palace, which was intended to provide a view of the surrounding panorama. Years of expansion and restoration resulted in the current appearance of the castle. After a tumultuous period, the castle was transferred to the ownership of its current lord, the German Federal Bank. Through extensive renovations and restoration work on the dilapidated castle, a training and further education center emerged that lost none of the princely charm of the time. Where once the nobility resided, about 140 students today study the theories of central banking. In this way, the University of Applied Sciences of the German Federal Bank grants the city of Hachenburg the title of the smallest university town in Germany.
The outdoor area of the castle can be accessed from Monday to Friday (08:00 AM - 06:00 PM). On weekends, visiting the outdoor area is only possible as part of a city tour .
Brief description
The castle greets the arriving guests from afar.