Freudenberg Castle

Freudenberg Castle is a medieval lowland castle near Bassum, a town in the district of Diepholz in Lower Saxony.

The Freudenburg was probably built as a so-called motte (motte-and-bailey castle) in such a way that a defensible, inhabited tower was created on a raised platform surrounded by a moat. Later, the complex was enlarged for military or other purposes, and the ring of fortifications was extended with new moats.

The "Slot" Freudenberg is first mentioned in a document around 1388, but was probably built much earlier. The oldest spelling of the name is "Vroydenbergh". Count Otto III of Hoya is considered to be the builder of the fortress.

After the extinction of the Counts of Hoya (1582), the village of Freudenberg and Freudenburg Castle had to endure a turbulent history. Wars, pledges, and disputes led to frequent changes of ownership. Over the years, the buildings have undergone many changes, depending on the wishes of the inhabitants.

In 1967, the city of Bassum took over the entire area belonging to Freudenburg, including the buildings, from the state of Lower Saxony. The buildings were renovated and a beautiful park was created. A 9 x 5 m building was handed over to the local heritage association as a local history museum.

Since 1993, Freudenburg has been used by the district of Diepholz and its adult education center as a seminar and conference house. Since its expansion to include the renovated outwork in 2009, it offers event space for 70 people. For overnight stays, 24 rooms with 35 beds are available.