Bischofschloss

Bischofschloss is a residential tower in Markdorf standing at the southwestern corner of the town fortifications with baroque design details and ornamental stucco ceilings. The building displays a slender tower form with small windows and a decorative stair gable at its summit.

The Bishops of Constance took control of the property in 1414, and Bishop Hugo von Hohenlandenberg expanded the tower in 1510 by adding another story with a stair gable. These works reflected the growing importance of episcopal authority in the region.

The coat of arms above the entrance displays symbols of religious and secular power, including a red cross, lions, and marks of Reichenau Abbey. These emblems show the dual authority that was once exercised here.

The building now houses Mindness Hotel Bischofschloss, offering rooms in the historic spaces, including the former knight's hall on the upper floor. Visitors should note that access depends on hotel operating hours.

Prince-Bishop Johann Franz Schenk von Stauffenberg removed structural supports during the 1735 baroque renovation to create larger spaces. This removal of supports noticeably affected the building's structural stability.