Schloss Thurnau

Schloss Thurnau is a castle complex in Bavaria comprising several interconnected buildings spanning multiple centuries of architecture. The structures include residential quarters, service buildings, and educational spaces arranged around courtyards and garden areas.

The castle was founded in 1239 by the Förtsch family and passed to the Giech and Künsberg noble houses in 1566 when that lineage ended. Subsequent centuries brought architectural modifications and expansions that shaped its current appearance.

The castle serves as a hub for scholarly work, hosting university research centers focused on music theater and regional history studies. This academic presence gives the complex a distinctive intellectual character that visitors can sense while exploring the grounds.

The castle provides guest accommodations in contemporary rooms and spaces for events and conferences throughout the complex. Walking through the grounds allows visitors to see the different buildings and their distinct characters at a leisurely pace.

The courtyard fountain features rococo patterns decorated with swan motifs that reflect the castle's noble past. One building is nicknamed the Stork Building because its architectural supports resemble stork legs.