Haus Alst, Medieval Burgmannshof in Horstmar, Germany.
Haus Alst is a Burgmannshof, a medieval residential complex with Renaissance features in Horstmar, North Rhine-Westphalia. The protected architectural ensemble consists of several buildings that display the structure of a fortified estate.
The estate was first documented in 1217 and served as a residence for the Schorlemer-Alst family, who provided military service to the bishop of Horstmar. The property maintained its importance over the centuries and was later expanded with Renaissance elements.
The estate shows how influential families lived in the medieval period and the role they played in governing their region. The buildings convey a sense of power and responsibility in that era.
The site is located in the Münster region and is reachable by local transport. Visitors should note that the building is a protected monument and may not be freely accessible in all areas.
The name comes from the old Germanic word 'alahstedi', meaning sanctuary, and points to its original use as a sacrificial site. The location was thus a religiously significant place long before its documented history.
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