Gut Ascheberg

Gut Ascheberg is an estate with château in Ascheberg, Schleswig-Holstein, positioned on the western shore of Großer Plöner See lake. The neoclassical mansion was built between 1869 and 1870, surrounded by maintained gardens, while the expansive 1,100-hectare property includes woodlands and agricultural fields.

The property originated in 1190 as a water castle near the Saxon-Wendish border and later became a fortified knight's seat during the 13th century. Subsequent centuries brought structural changes that shaped the form visible today.

The estate maintains traditional agricultural practices while hosting seasonal markets and festivals that showcase regional products and local craftsmanship.

The site now serves as a youth recreation center and is partially accessible to visitors during annual markets and special events. Checking beforehand for open days is recommended, as public access is typically limited to organized occasions.

Hans zu Rantzau, who owned the estate in 1739, became the first landowner in Holstein to abolish serfdom and grant peasants ownership of their fields. This decision was unusually progressive for the time and demonstrated a rare social stance among estate owners.