An exterior view of the Löwenburg taken in July 2023.. Foto Mario Zgoll

23-02-01 | With its turrets and oriels it almost resembles a miniature, anything between a stronghold, dainty castle and monastery. Art historians have a hard time placing Löwenburg into art historical context. Some believe its construction was inspired by medieval structures, others speak of a historicist style, while a few hold on to neogothicism.

This view of Löwenburg Castle was taken by photographer Georg Friedrich Leonhardt about 120 years ago. Sternbald reproduction

At the end of the day, it merely served as a land-grave’s love nest and retreat, built according to his personal preferen- ce and imagination; in the same way, he, being the Hereditary Prince of Hanau, had previously had a similar castle ruin built.

Wilhelm IX. designed this castle together with his master builder Jussow around 1800.

It is unlikely to have failed its romantic effects on his mistress.

Therefore, it does not surprise that 20s Movie “The Little Napoleon“ was shot in this location. It became Marlene Dietrichs first confirmed movie role.

Queue of visitors for the reopening of the Löwenburg in Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe in the summer of 2022. Photo Mario Zgoll

This castle has everything visitors may wish for: a keep and an armoury including the “Black Knight‘s“ armour, all backed up by its rock-solid and true history. Take a look at the vault the landgrave was buried in. All sections are accessible to the public.

Löwenburg Castle Open 1 March to 15 November Tue to Sun 10 am – 5 pm 16 November to 28 February Fri to Sun 10 am – 4 pm Tram 1 to Hillside Park Wilhelmshöhe