Stapel Castle

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.

References:

• muensterland.com

Address

Gennerich 18B, Havixbeck, Germany

Details

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