Haus Heyde, Castle ruins in Unna, Germany
Haus Heyde is a medieval fortified residence in Unna-Uelzen of which sections of the former moat system remain visible today. The ruins show the basic structure of what was once an important family seat for multiple generations of nobility.
First documented in 1343, the site was home to nine noble families including the von Sprenge and von Bodelschwingh over several centuries. It ceased to function as a residence in 1927, after which the structure gradually declined into the ruins seen today.
The name "Heyde" refers to the heathland that once dominated this area. Visitors can see how the site reflects the connection between the noble families and the natural landscape that surrounded their residence.
The ruins are situated within a nature reserve established in 1989 that surrounds and protects the grounds. Visitors can explore the remains on foot in a natural setting that preserves the character of the historical site.
A former air raid shelter on the grounds was converted in 1996 into a bat sanctuary. The transformed bunker now serves as a home for eight different bat species that use it year-round.
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