Bad Homburg Castle
Hessen
Bad Homburg Castle, located in Bad Homburg vor der Höhe, Germany, is a striking palace with origins dating back to the 12th century. Originally a medieval fortress, it was largely rebuilt in the late 17th century under Landgrave Frederick II, who commissioned architect Paul Andrich to create a new baroque-style residence between 1680 and 1685. The castle grounds feature extensive gardens, including the notable Gothic House, reflecting the English garden style favored by Princess Elizabeth, daughter of King George III of the United Kingdom. Over the centuries, the castle served as the residence of the Landgraves of Hesse-Homburg and later became a summer residence for Prussian kings and German emperors after Prussia annexed Hesse-Homburg in 1866. The castle complex includes the iconic White Tower, a 14th-century bergfried and symbol of Bad Homburg, as well as two inner courtyards and several wings such as the English Wing and Royal Wing, which were added or refurbished during the 18th and 19th centuries. Today, the castle functions as a museum and the headquarters of the Administration of State Castles and Gardens of Hesse, offering visitors a rich historical experience with architectural grandeur and beautifully landscaped gardens.
Plan your trip to Germany with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: Visitors should plan their visit during spring or early autumn to enjoy the castle gardens at their best. Booking guided tours in advance is recommended, especially for special events like the Bad Homburg Castle Concerts. Discounts may be available for groups, children, and seniors. The castle is accessible by public transport and offers informative exhibitions to enhance the visitor experience.
Interesting facts
- •The White Tower, built in the 14th century, is the emblematic landmark of Bad Homburg and stands 48.11 meters tall.
- •Princess Elizabeth, daughter of King George III, influenced the English-style gardens that remain a highlight of the castle park.
- •The castle was offered as a residence to the exiled German Emperor William II by Adolf Hitler, but he refused the offer.
- •The castle complex includes two inner courtyards with distinct architectural features and views of the Taunus mountains.
History
The first structure on the site was a wooden tower built around 1180, which was later replaced by a stone castle in the 14th century, including the construction of the White Tower.
The castle served as the residence of the Landgraves of Hesse-Homburg from 1622.
In the late 17th century, Frederick II demolished most of the medieval castle and rebuilt it in baroque style.
The castle became a summer residence for Prussian kings after 1866, with successive monarchs adding modern amenities and refurbishments.
Following the German Revolution, the castle was administered by the Free State of Prussia and later by the state of Hesse, becoming a museum and cultural venue.
Place Guide
The White Tower14th century
A free-standing medieval bergfried built in the third quarter of the 14th century, the White Tower is the most prominent symbol of Bad Homburg. It stands 48.11 meters tall and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
English WingLate 18th to early 19th century
Constructed during the renovation by Princess Elizabeth and Frederick VI, the English Wing reflects the tastes of British garden art and interior design of the late 18th and early 19th centuries.
Royal WingLate 19th to early 20th century
Refurbished by William II and Augusta Victoria in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the Royal Wing includes modern amenities added by Frederick III such as bathrooms, telephone rooms, and electricity.
Castle Gardens and Gothic House18th and 19th centuries
The gardens evolved over 300 years, combining baroque and English landscape styles. The Gothic House was built for Princess Elizabeth and remains a key feature of the park.
Contact
Phone: 06172 9262148
