Schloss Harbke

Schloss Harbke is a Renaissance castle ruin in the village of Harbke featuring two three-story wing buildings connected by a polygonal stair tower with a pointed roof. The structure sits within a spacious park that includes a fishing pond and open meadows for walking and observation.

The Veltheim family built a water castle called Hertbike in the 14th century with protective moats surrounding it. Over centuries, ownership changed hands and the structure evolved, eventually taking on the Renaissance architectural features visible today.

The Veltheim family coats of arms remain visible on the walls, marking the families who shaped this place over centuries. Walking through the grounds, you see how the building was once a statement of power and status in the region.

The grounds are freely accessible for walking and exploring the park pathways at your own pace. Wear sturdy shoes since the terrain can be uneven, particularly after wet weather.

The botanical garden gained scholarly attention in the 18th century when a botanist produced an important treatise on trees here. The reputation was such that the famous writer Goethe visited the grounds to observe the plant collections.

Location: Harbke

GPS coordinates: 52.19120,11.04750

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:51