Haus Woord, Heritage monument in Bocholt, Germany.
Haus Woord is a two-story neoclassical mansion built with brick and sandstone, featuring ancient god statues at its courtyard entrance. The building displays the residential architecture typical of late 18th-century wealthy households.
The mansion was built between 1792 and 1795 for tax director Joseph von Raesfeld. It changed ownership in 1827 when textile manufacturer Ludwig Schwartz acquired it, transforming it into a major industrial entrepreneur's residence.
The statues in the courtyard depict ancient gods and date from the early 1700s, when such secular artworks were uncommon in Westphalia. They show visitors how wealthy citizens once decorated their homes with classical themes.
The property is now home to private residences and a law firm, so only the exterior and courtyard can be viewed from outside. Visitors can observe the building and its statues from the street without any cost.
The old horse chestnut trees that once defined the grounds have been gradually replaced with silver linden trees since 2007. This shift shows how even heritage sites must adapt to changing conditions over time.
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