Schwansbell Castle

The origins of Schloss Schwansbell date back to 1187, when it served as a knight's seat for the Lords of Schwansbell. The castle acquired its current appearance between 1872 and 1875 under Wilhelm von Westerholt, based on designs by the Dortmund architect Fritz Weber, with the addition of two octagonal towers. In 1929, the property became owned by the city of Lünen. Subsequently, it served various purposes, including as accommodation for the Hitler Youth in 1934, as an orphanage, and during World War II as quarters for flight crews. After the war, it was temporarily used as a hospital and later as a youth and orphanage.