In the charming town of Troisdorf, nestled in the North Rhine-Westphalia region of Germany, lies a hidden gem of historical and cultural significance: Burg Wissem. This enchanting castle, with its rich history and picturesque setting, offers visitors a delightful journey through time and a unique glimpse into the region's heritage.
Burg Wissem, originally known as the free noble estate and parliamentary farm Wiesheim, traces its origins back to the Carolingian era. This historical estate was initially constructed as a moated castle, a common feature of medieval fortifications designed to provide defense against invaders. Over the centuries, the castle has undergone numerous transformations, each adding a layer to its storied past.
The first recorded owner of Burg Wissem was Rembold von Plettenberg in 1435. Through inheritance and marriage, the estate changed hands several times, passing from the Plettenberg family to the von Zweiffel family in 1511. Caspar von Zweiffel undertook significant renovations in 1548, including the construction of the so-called Vorburg (forecourt), which remains a prominent feature of the castle to this day.
In 1646, the estate came into the possession of the von Cortenbach family through the marriage of Johann Franz Gerhard von Cortenbach to Anna Klara von Zweiffel. Subsequent owners included Johann Ernst von Landsberg zu Olpe and Franz Bernhard von Hocherbach. In 1826, Friedrich von Hövel inherited the castle, only to sell it two years later to Ernst August von Beust. The estate was eventually acquired by Clemens von Loë in 1833. In 1939, the castle was sold to the municipality of Troisdorf, marking the beginning of its modern era.
During World War II, Burg Wissem served as the town's administrative center, functioning as the town hall from 1945 to 1981. This period saw significant renovations and restorations, ensuring the preservation of the castle's historical architecture.
Today, Burg Wissem stands as a testament to the region's rich history and cultural heritage. The castle complex is an elongated rectangular structure, open on the west side, with two diagonally positioned corner towers that add to its architectural charm. While the original moat is only partially preserved, the castle's layout still reflects its medieval origins.
The main building, constructed on the south side of the complex, is a two-story neoclassical plastered structure built after 1840. This elegant mansion underwent extensive renovations in 1954/1955, restoring its former glory. The eastern side of the complex features a long quarry stone wing dating back to around 1550, which now hosts regular exhibitions and concerts, adding a touch of contemporary culture to the historical setting.
The northern and western sides of the castle, damaged during the war, were rebuilt in 1962, preserving the historic Hausstein portal from 1741 at a newly constructed gatehouse. This blend of old and new architecture creates a unique atmosphere that visitors can explore and appreciate.
One of the most captivating features of Burg Wissem is the Museum for Picture Book Art and Youth Book Illustration, the only museum of its kind in Europe. Established in 1982, this museum offers a fascinating journey through the world of children's book illustrations, showcasing the evolution of styles and trends over the past century. The museum's collection provides a comprehensive overview of the art of picture book illustration, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts and families alike.
In 2001/2002, the castle's tower room was transformed into the Geerte-Murmann-Schmökerstube, a cozy reading nook for children, with the support of Heinz Murmann. This charming addition to the museum invites young visitors to immerse themselves in the world of books and storytelling.
Adjacent to Burg Wissem is a delightful sensory experience park, established in 2002 by the Kreativ-Werkstatt Troisdorf. This park, inspired by the ideas of Hugo Kükelhaus, features fourteen interactive stations designed to sharpen visitors' senses. It's a perfect place for families to explore and engage with their surroundings in a fun and educational way.
In 2012, Burg Wissem's cultural offerings were further expanded as part of the Regionale 2010 initiative. The castle now houses the Museum for Urban and Industrial History Troisdorf (MUSIT), the Portal to Wahner Heide, and the KennenLernenUmwelt (KLU) project, which offers extracurricular programs for local schools. Additionally, the west wing of the castle now features a new wedding room, the Kreativwerkstatt, spaces for the local history and heritage association, the Heinz Müller Foundation, a restaurant, and a tourist information center.
The Portal to Wahner Heide, located in the west wing, provides visitors with an in-depth look at the nearby nature reserve through exhibitions, lectures, and an information desk. This initiative aims to raise awareness about the natural beauty and ecological importance of the Wahner Heide.
In conclusion, Burg Wissem is not just a historical monument; it is a vibrant cultural hub that offers something for everyone. Whether you're interested in exploring the castle's rich history, immersing yourself in the world of picture book art, or enjoying a sensory experience in the park, Burg Wissem promises an unforgettable visit. So, make sure to add this enchanting castle to your itinerary when you find yourself in Troisdorf, and let its timeless charm captivate you.
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