Gut Schlagbaum, Water castle in Holweide, Germany.
Gut Schlagbaum is a water castle in Holweide that stands with its remaining corner tower beside the Faulbach stream, which once supplied water to the moats. The main building now houses artist studios and remains in private ownership, with only certain areas open to visitors.
The castle was built in the 16th century as a lowland fortress and received its name from a toll collection point that once operated in this area. Over the following centuries, ownership changed and the structure was rebuilt several times.
The Renaissance relief above the gate shows Adam and Eve, representing the artistic elements from the original structure. This depiction reflects the religious and artistic values of the period and shapes how the place looks today.
The grounds are privately owned and access is restricted, so it is best to check beforehand which areas are open to visitors. The best view of the structure can be had from the stream bank, where footpaths run along the property edge.
After World War II, displaced workers from Eastern Europe found shelter here before the city of Cologne allocated space to craftspeople. This episode shaped the place's history as a refuge and workshop space for different communities.
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