Schloss Fikensolt

Schloss Fikensolt is a water castle in Westerstede featuring a rectangular structure positioned on an island surrounded by a wide defensive moat. The building sits on solid foundations and connects to the surrounding land through a bridge on its southern side.

The Lords of Fikensolt first appeared in records around 1127 and controlled the castle until their family line ended in 1613. Beneath the current structure lie archaeological layers showing multiple building phases spanning from the 12th to 15th centuries.

The current structure, built in the 18th century, incorporates elements of earlier buildings and reflects the architectural evolution of German noble residences.

The property is privately owned and closed to visitors, though the cycling routes in the region pass near its grounds. The best way to see the castle is while cycling through the area on one of the established regional routes that provide views from the outside.

Excavations in 1973 uncovered walls from at least three different building periods, revealing that this site was reconstructed multiple times. The findings suggest that fortifications may have existed on this island far longer than previously thought.