Dorenburg, Water castle in Grefrath, Germany
Dorenburg is a water castle with an L-shaped floor plan surrounded by defensive moats located within the Niederrheinisches Freilichtmuseum grounds. The structure displays the architectural style typical of a fortified noble residence in this region.
The castle was founded in 1326 under the rule of the Lords of Wachtendonk as a fortified structure. Around 1630 it was transformed into a Baroque manor house.
The interior of Dorenburg displays collections representing noble and middle-class living traditions of the Lower Rhine region through different historical periods.
The northern wing was rebuilt in 1970 after war damage and now serves as an exhibition space. Visitors can see rotating exhibitions about regional history throughout the year.
The cellar vaults preserve traces from when the estate served as a fief of the Duchy of Geldern, which lasted until 1800. After that the property passed into civilian hands and lost its noble status.
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