Hohenlimburg Castle

The origins of Hohenlimburg Castle date back to the 13th century, when Count Dietrich I of Altena-Isenberg began its construction around 1240. The complex served as the residence of the Counts of Limburg and was the political and administrative center of the County of Limburg until 1807/08. In 1288, the castle was conquered by Count Eberhard I of the Mark. Later, in 1459, it fell to the Counts of Limburg-Broich after a siege. Alterations took place in the mid-16th century and in the first half of the 18th century, when the castle was owned by the Counts of Bentheim-Tecklenburg. After 1816/17, it served as the main residence for the Princes of Bentheim-Tecklenburg until about 1830, before being moved to Rheda Castle. During the Thirty Years' War, Hohenlimburg was besieged by imperial troops in 1633 and used as quarters until 1636, with the outer bailey being destroyed by fire. In the 17th century, the complex transformed from a pure castle into a palace.