Burg Engelsdorf

Burg Engelsdorf is a medieval water castle in Aldenhoven featuring a two-winged structure with thick walls and a moat fed by the Merzbach river. The building displays Gothic architectural elements and underwent comprehensive restoration in 2007 to secure its historic vault structure.

The castle was first documented in 1080 as the ancestral residence of the Lords of Engelsdorf. It passed to the Palant family in 1476, marking a significant change in its ownership and role.

The castle hosts an art center established in 1989 where Chilean artists work in studios, foundries, and wood workshops within its walls. This blend of medieval architecture and contemporary artistic practice creates a working space that merges craft traditions with the castle's historic setting.

The castle is best explored on foot as its layout is compact and easy to navigate. Visitors can view the exterior and surrounding grounds freely, though it is wise to check ahead if interior areas with artist studios are open to the public.

The Merzbach river still feeds the castle moat today, maintaining its original water castle function from medieval times. This feature keeps the river directly connected to the building's presence in the landscape.

Location: Aldenhoven

GPS coordinates: 50.91650,6.29903

Latest update: December 9, 2025 20:24