Altheim Castle

The castle of the Barons of Freyberg was built between 1701 and 1706 on the walls of an old castle dating back to before 1412.

From the beginnings to the destruction in the Peasants' War

The first documented mention of a castle in Freyberg dates back to 1412. At that time, the Lords of Freyberg were enfeoffed with the castle and the associated dominion. The castle was strategically located on a hill and protected a ford across the river. In the following centuries, the castle was repeatedly expanded and fortified. During the German Peasants' War in 1525, the castle was besieged and largely destroyed by rebellious peasants. The then lord of the castle, Hans von Freyberg, was able to escape at the last moment.

Reconstruction and Baroque expansion

After the Peasants' War, the castle was rebuilt, but it took several decades for it to regain its former glory. In the early 18th century, under Baron Johann Christoph von Freyberg, the castle underwent a comprehensive baroque redesign. The old medieval walls were integrated into the new building, but the overall appearance was transformed into a magnificent baroque residence. The construction work lasted from 1701 to 1706 and gave the castle its present appearance. Famous artists and craftsmen from the region were involved in the design of the interiors.

Later centuries and present day

In the following centuries, the castle remained in the possession of the Barons of Freyberg. It survived various wars and political upheavals largely unscathed. In the 19th century, minor alterations were made, but the baroque character was preserved. During the Second World War, the castle was used as a temporary hospital, but suffered no major damage. Today, Schloss Freyberg is still privately owned by the Freyberg family and is regularly used for cultural events and private celebrations. Parts of the castle are also open to the public for guided tours at certain times.

Schloss Freyberg is an impressive example of baroque architecture, which skillfully combines older building elements with the new style. The main building is a three-story structure with a striking mansard roof. The facade is richly decorated with stucco and sculptures. Particularly noteworthy are the central risalit, which is crowned by a triangular pediment, and the ornate portal. Inside, numerous magnificent rooms have been preserved, including the large ballroom, the chapel and various salons.

Interiors

The interiors of Schloss Freyberg are characterized by their rich baroque decoration. The ballroom, located on the first floor, impresses with its ceiling frescoes, which depict mythological scenes, and its elaborate stucco work. The walls are adorned with valuable tapestries and portraits of the Freyberg family. The castle chapel, consecrated in 1706, is a jewel of baroque sacred art with its altar, pulpit and ceiling paintings. In the various salons, valuable furniture, paintings and porcelain from different eras can be admired.

Gardens

The castle is surrounded by an extensive baroque garden, which was laid out at the same time as the castle's baroque redesign. The garden is characterized by its geometric paths, trimmed hedges, fountains and sculptures. A special feature is the orangery, which was used to house exotic plants in winter. From the garden, there are magnificent views of the surrounding landscape. In recent years, parts of the garden have been restored according to historical models.