Double lock system Harkotten

Double lock system Harkotten

The double castle complex of Harkotten is a unique building; only rarely are two such impressive castles so close to each other.

The Harkotten double castle complex is a truly impressive building. It is rare to see two castles so close together. The double castle complex consists of the Harkotten von Korff manor house and the Harkotten von Ketteler castle. The history of the double castle goes back to a mighty castle complex from the 14th century.

Today the double castle and the surrounding forests are a popular destination for excursions. The Harkotten von Korff manor house houses a small café and a museum that tells about the history of the castle and the two families. Harkotten von Ketteler Castle can only be admired from a distance.

• A tour of the exterior of the Harkotten von Korff manor house is possible at any time. A tour of the interior is only possible by prior appointment or during the specified opening hours.
• Schloss Harkotten von Ketteler can only be seen from a distance and cannot be visited.

In 1308, the knight Henricus II built a massive castle on what is now the site of the double castle of Harkotten. The "Horekotten" had two wings and an imposing middle section. The fortified castle was surrounded by water arms of the Bever and numerous swamps. Thus, the castle was considered impregnable at that time. In 1334, the entire castle complex, as well as the forests and corridors, were divided between two brothers. For centuries, the castle was owned by two families until 1755, when the von Kettler family had the eastern wing demolished. Johann Gröninger then built a representative Baroque castle there. In 1804, the demolition of the western wing was followed by the construction of a new classicist manor house by the architect Adolf Vagedes. The imposing double castle complex is still owned by the von Ketteler and von Korff families today.