Can Schloss Friedrichstanneck Be Saved?

Schloss Friedrichstanneck, situated in Eisenberg, Thuringia, has long been included in the list of endangered monuments. Although it may not possess the same prominence as the renowned Reinhardsbrunn Castle or the “New Hunting Lodge” in Hummelshain, the former residence of the von Sachsen-Gotha-Altenburg family holds a desirable position. In September 2020, the monument authority of the Free State documented over 50 at-risk castles and mansions, including Schloss Friedrichstanneck.

While the media frenzy surrounding Reinhardsbrunn Castle and the subsequent expropriation procedure captured significant attention, the response from preservationists and local researchers seemed to diminish regarding the outskirts of Eisenberg. Is the castle considered too insignificant, already succumbing to ruin, or lacking the aesthetic appeal necessary to awaken national interest? These questions lingered without satisfactory answers.

The existence of potential buyers for castles and other historic properties is present. However, when ownership remains unclear for extended periods, such as in the case of Friedrichstanneck, marketing becomes difficult and often impossible. The transfer of the property to the possession of the Eisenberger Wohngesellschaft still needs to provide the much-needed security or a comprehensive usage concept for the area. Nonetheless, the demolition has been postponed, as the Thuringian monument authority previously approved to preserve the historic building, albeit with certain conditions.

The fate of Schloss Friedrichstanneck, whether it will vanish like many other monuments in Thuringia or if there remains hope for its preservation, lies in the hands of a newly commissioned architectural expert report. Considering economic factors, this report will ultimately determine whether a future exists for this castle1.

Despite the extensive damage caused by 25 years of vacancy and vandalism, significant investments will be required for restoration. The prospect of demolition is distressing; however, remnants of the original construction era have been preserved within the building, even amidst the GDR-influenced renovations. The extraordinary character of the castle is still discernible, serving as a testament to its former glory. In comparison, other buildings removed from the Thuringian list of monuments, such as the hunting lodge in Rathsfeld, have faced far worse conditions.

Now, the final phase begins—a critical juncture where the future of this castle hangs in the balance. Schloss Friedrichstanneck is not yet lost, and the voices of the Eisenberg community, preservationists, local researchers, and enthusiasts of historic real estate must resonate once again. Let us join together in making a resounding call or leaving a passionate comment, united in our determination to save this invaluable piece of history.

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Via: [realportico]