Schloss Harkotten, Double castle complex in Sassenberg, Germany
Schloss Harkotten is a divided castle complex in Sassenberg with two separate residences set on island plots surrounded by moats. One building displays baroque design elements, while the other residence features classical architectural details.
The original structure appeared in the 14th century and was divided between two brothers in 1334, leading each to build a separate house on the estate. This division shaped how the complex developed architecturally over the following centuries.
The wall paintings by Phillip Ferdinand Bartscher displayed in the museum show artistic treasures preserved by families in the Münsterland region over generations. These works reveal how nobles of the region understood and valued art.
The grounds are open daily for visitors to walk around, though interior access to the main house requires advance booking for groups of ten or more. Bring rain protection when visiting, as the pathways between the buildings cross open areas exposed to weather.
An eight-meter tall Atlas figure carved in 1729 stands east of Castle Ketteler as one of the largest baroque park sculptures in Westphalia. The stone figure often goes unnoticed because it sits away from the main paths and few visitors find it.
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