Haus Esselt, Water castle in Hünxe, Germany
Haus Esselt is a water castle near Huenxe surrounded by moats and water features typical of defensive manor estates. The main building displays baroque architecture with symmetrical windows, shuttered openings, and a tiled hipped roof characteristic of the period.
First documented in 1330, the estate changed hands among noble families including Henrick Snackard and later Johann von der Capellen. The von der Capellen family served the Duchess of Kleve and shaped the property's development across generations.
The site functions as the Otto Pankok Museum since 1968, displaying the artist's work in a converted barn building. This transformation connects the estate's history to its role as a place for experiencing modern art.
The grounds are accessible on foot, though visitors should check ahead whether guided tours of the manor are available. The exhibitions in the converted barn change regularly, so checking current programs before visiting helps you plan your time.
The artist Otto Pankok made this his personal retreat from 1958 until his death in 1966, establishing a direct link between his creative life and the estate. Over 5,000 charcoal drawings by him remain housed here, grounding the museum's collection in his years spent on the grounds.
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