Stapel Castle

Havixbeck, Germany

Haus Stapel near Havixbeck is one of the largest moated castles in Westphalia. It was first mentioned in documents in 1211 as the seat of the Kerckerinck family. The flanking towers of the outer bailey and all other outbuildings apart from the gate tower were built in 1607-1608, the gate tower was possibly built in 1719 according to plans by Maximilian von Welsch. The classicist main building was designed by August Reinking. The castle buildings were completed in 1828. The castle estate 'Haus Stapel' always belonged to landed gentry families. It was never sold in its entire history, but only passed to other families through the female line of succession.

Incidentally, 'Stapel' comes from 'stave', Middle High German for 'traffic jam'. In fact, since the early Middle Ages there have been extensive dams in which stream water was dammed. At the time, these dams were used to operate an extensive fishing centre. The deep and wide ditches in the castle park are therefore remnants of this.

The somewhat hidden estate is completely rented out and can therefore not usually be entered. However, the magnificent house opens its doors a few times a year, allowing visitors to view the park, inner courtyard and staircase during concerts. Guests can visit the ballroom on a guided tour with the castle owner on Open Monument Day. Since 2023, it has also been possible to take part in a garden tour from February to September inclusive. Every 1st Saturday of the month at 14:00, owner Dr Mechthild Baroness Raitz von Frentz gives a guided tour of the park. Advance booking is not necessary. The fee is 5 euros per person.

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Details

Founded: 17th century
Category: Castles and fortifications in Germany
Historical period: Reformation & Wars of Religion (Germany)

More Information

www.muensterland.com

Rating

4.1/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Christiane Häder (4 months ago)
A great building from the outside. Currently no access due to renovation work. I couldn't find any parking nearby so I parked on the main street. Nice area to walk...
Francisco Arias (Frncesc) (22 months ago)
A pleasant surprise. I was driving nearby and found this beautiful castle, very romantic and well preserved, I hope to return for a more detailed visit.
Joel Lostao (2 years ago)
Super
Axel Heibel (3 years ago)
Top
Ingmar (6 years ago)
Very idyllic, unfortunately the water level is very low and the forest paths are only partially accessible due to the storm. Maybe the trees will be moved out of the way at some point. Since it is privately owned, it could take some time. Otherwise it would be a nice corner to linger.
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