Melchior-Jäger Castle

The Melchior-Jäger-Haus, also known as Jäger's Little Castle, is one of Neuffen's most interesting buildings. Its historical value is undisputed, and the house is a protected monument. The castle-like character is underscored by the relatively generous layout for a walled small town.

Furthermore, the building itself, with its 2-story central wing and two side towers, appears quite representative. The courtyard belonging to the complex still recalls the late medieval self-contained nature of a noble town house with coach houses, stables, and barns. A small flight of steps emphasizes the stately entrance. The well in the courtyard highlights the independence and self-sufficiency of a freehold estate. The former garden area was located outside the western city wall, which also served as the foundation for the building.

The interiors are no longer in their original condition, but baroque elements can be recognized in the room and ceiling design.

The little castle takes its name from its builder, the ducal councilor Melchior Jäger. He acquired the property with the former vogt's house, which was threatened with decay, in 1590 in exchange for his father's residential building (today Paulusstraße 7). Jäger himself did not live in the freehold house. However, it remained in the family's possession until 1670. After that, the estate changed hands several times, including commanders of Hohenneuffen Fortress.

Finally, the ducal real estate office acquired the estate in 1745 and established the Oberamt (district office) in the building. This administrative authority replaced the former vogtei. In addition to the town, the Oberamt was responsible for 12 other villages and hamlets. In 1806, Württemberg became a kingdom. The Oberamt Neuffen was dissolved and incorporated into Nürtingen.

Jäger's Little Castle remained a state authority as a Kameralamt (treasury office) or Finanzamt (tax office) until 1935. After that, the rooms temporarily served social institutions until the city took over the property in 1957. Today, the building houses core-time childcare as well as club and faction rooms.