Schloss Birlinghoven

Schloss Birlinghoven is a research center near Sankt Augustin located on a hilltop within the Birlinghoven Forest. The building now houses Fraunhofer Institute facilities and is surrounded by expansive grounds that date back to its original design.

The castle was constructed between 1901 and 1903 by architect Edwin Crones for the Rautenstrauch family. During the 20th century it served as a military facility and recreation center before becoming federal property.

The castle takes its name from the surrounding forest and is now experienced by visitors as a modern research hub that has preserved its historical architecture. The buildings blend their past as a mansion with their current purpose as a scientific center.

The site sits somewhat removed from town and is surrounded by forest, so visitors should wear good walking shoes and allow time for exploration. The buildings remain in active use as research facilities, so access restrictions may apply.

The grounds hosted pioneering scientific work when Deutsche Shell established a fundamental research institute there in 1959. This past as a private industry research site is often overlooked today, though it represents an important chapter in German scientific history.

Location: Birlinghoven

Elevation above the sea: 146.7 m

Website: http://izb.fraunhofer.de

GPS coordinates: 50.74894,7.20567

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:46