Popular moated castle complex on the Niers
Address: Wickrath Castle, Schloss Wickrath 17, 41189 Mönchengladbach | Built: 1746 to 1772 | Architectural style: Baroque
Wickrath Castle in Mönchengladbach is a charming, historic building. It is beautifully situated in the lowlands of the Niers River and boasts impressive qualities. This place offers a unique insight into Baroque architecture. The Baroque castle features a forecourt and main castle and was built in the Niers floodplain following a French model. The imposing castle complex includes an equally impressive castle park.
The impressive park, which extends over 19 hectares, has a very distinctive and, for its time, unusual shape. It is reminiscent of a count’s crown and thus boasts a park design unparalleled in the Rhineland, dating back to a bygone era. Anyone visiting Mönchengladbach should not miss Wickrath Castle.
Directions and location of Mönchengladbach’s landmark
Wickrath Castle is located in the southwest of Mönchengladbach, in the Niersaue (Niers Valley), and is surrounded by a vast, incomparable park. Not far from the moated castle complex is the Mönchengladbach district of Wickrath.
The area is bordered by Hochstadenstraße, Wickrathberger Straße, the peninsula, and the A61 motorway. The Niers River flows right through the enchanting and lovingly landscaped park. The park itself is a place to linger and immerse yourself in the unique beauty of nature.
Opening Hours and Tours
Since Wickrath Castle is closed to the public, there are no set opening hours or tours of the castle. Instead, the moated castle and the lovingly landscaped park surrounding it can be admired and visited at any time.
Admission Prices at Wickrath Castle, Mönchengladbach
Admission fees are charged for certain events held at Wickrath Castle throughout the year. Those wishing to visit the castle’s Christmas market pay €5.
Many other events, however, are free of charge, such as the “Festival at the Lake.” Events are also held at the castle. Those interested can purchase tickets in advance for these. Admission prices vary, however.
Guided Tours of Wickrath Castle, Mönchengladbach
Wickrath Castle does not offer guided tours on site. However, tours of the castle park are offered at irregular intervals. Those wishing to participate in such a tour should check the dates in advance. The park tours are organized by the Wickrath Tourist and Local History Association.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about Wickrath Castle
What is Wickrath Castle?
Wickrath Castle is a baroque moated castle in the Wickrath district of Mönchengladbach. It was built in the 18th century and once served as the residence of the von Quadt family. Today, the castle houses, among other things, a restaurant and is a popular venue for weddings, concerts, and other cultural events.
When was Wickrath Castle built?
Wickrath Castle was built in the 18th century, more precisely between 1746 and 1772, during the Baroque period.
Wickrath Castle, Mönchengladbach – Special Features and Interesting Facts
Very close to the center of the Wickrath district is Wickrath Castle and the 19-hectare park surrounding the Baroque castle. Located directly on the Niers River, the enchanting park is a true gem. In Mönchengladbach, the park and Wickrath Castle are among the most beautiful places to linger and unwind.
The Baroque castle was built on the site of a moated castle from the late Middle Ages. Its builder was Friedrich Wilhelm Otto Freiherr von Quadt. The castle was constructed between 1746 and 1772 by the Maastricht master builder Matthieu Soiron. A special feature of the Baroque castle is its axially symmetrical design.
The castle, built in the Nier floodplain, has an outer bailey and a main bailey. It is evident that the castle was designed based on French models. There is no other palace garden in the entire Rhineland that resembles the park surrounding Wickrath Castle.
Crown-shaped, crisscrossed by linden tree avenues and ponds, the unique palace garden stretches out into the Nier floodplain. A stroll along the park reveals herons and kingfishers, which have made their home in the parkland.
Wickrath Castle has not only written town history. A long tradition of use is also significant. For almost 300 years, the castle has been known for its horse breeding.
Anyone who takes a look at Wickrath Castle after a stroll through the palace gardens will notice a strict Baroque design concept, even in the outer bailey. The outer bailey island and the main bailey island are separated by a moat surrounded by walls.
From the park, visitors from the north can reach the inner courtyard, which belongs to the outer bailey, via the Pferdekopf and Niers bridges from Trompeterallee. Those wishing to reach the main bailey island must cross the Carrot Bridge. To the south, the main island is connected to the castle field by the Crown Bridge.
If you look around with open eyes, you’ll discover an impressive gable relief on the outer bailey on the west wing. The former main castle can be seen in the background. The columns at the entrance to Wickrath Castle are decorated with horse heads. Walking around the moated castle, you’ll discover outbuildings and beautifully landscaped flower beds.
The diversity of Wickrath Castle and its park certainly compensates for the fact that the moated castle cannot be visited from the inside.
Historical Information and History of Wickrath Castle, Mönchengladbach
Wickrath was first mentioned in 1104/1105 in the biography of the Archbishop of Cologne, Anno II. It states that Wichinrod Castle was owned by Count Gerlach. The castle at that time, surrounded by moats, likely stood in the same area where Wickrath Castle is today.
In November 1488, Emperor Frederick III granted the area around the castle market and town rights. From then on, the area around the castle was also authorized to collect tolls and customs duties.
A fire in 1745 severely damaged the castle. Just one year later, Wilhelm Otto Friedrich von Quadt had the old castle demolished to build Wickrath Castle on the same site. Construction of the Baroque castle took place from 1746 to 1772. The plans were designed by Mattieu and François Sorion. It stipulated that two outer bailey wings, a stately manor house, and a spacious park based on the French model were to be built.
When Napoleon and his army occupied the area on the left bank of the Rhine during the French Revolution, Otto Wilhelm von Quadt, who last owned the moated castle, fled. As early as the mid-18th century, Wickrath Castle was considered a center for horse breeding. To ensure fresh horses for his army, Napoleon built a depot for stallions at the castle in 1806. After Napoleon’s reign in 1818, the stud farm was converted into a barracks for the cavalry. The Baroque castle remained untouched.
For a long time, the park and Wickrath Castle were neglected or neglected. A fundamental renovation took place as part of EUROGA 2002plus. Extensive replanting was undertaken to restore the park to its former glory. Ponds were cleared of mud, and avenues were rebuilt in their original form. New elements have also been added to the castle park, including a water playground.
Sights and attractions in the immediate vicinity of Wickrath Castle
If you want to discover sights and attractions, all you have to do is take a closer look during a stroll in the castle park. Unique gems can be found everywhere.
A particular eye-catcher is the historic fountain in front of the outer bailey. The bronze plaques adorning the pillars at the edge of the pool are striking. In addition to four delicate water fountains, there is a central area from which water bubbles high towards the sky.
Stroll along charming avenues along the Niers River. Benches at the surrounding ponds invite you to linger. Anyone in Mönchengladbach during the summer months, specifically in July, should definitely not miss the “Festival at the Lake.” The “Festival at the Lake” has been celebrated in Mönchengladbach for 46 years and is considered a traditional event. There, you can experience an exclusive mix of a varied stage program and a creative market. There is a beach area and various culinary delicacies.
But even in winter, there’s plenty going on in the immediate vicinity of Wickrath Castle. In the run-up to Christmas, a magical Christmas market takes place in the castle grounds. The Christmas market is open from the end of November until December 23rd. Visitors can expect a magical pre-Christmas experience with numerous delicacies. In addition to delicious treats, the Christmas market at the castle offers handicrafts, delicious mulled wine, and atmospheric music.
Cafés and Restaurants Near Wickrath Castle, Mönchengladbach
After a long stroll through the 19-hectare park and a tour of Wickrath Castle, you’re sure to feel hungry and thirsty. Several restaurants have set up shop nearby to treat their guests to culinary delights. Sitting comfortably and enjoying the special atmosphere is included.
Wickrath Castle
The main castle of Wickrath Castle houses a restaurant with a beautiful outdoor terrace, which invites you to linger in the summer months with views of the castle and park. The menu includes German dishes and international cuisine. In the nostalgic atmosphere of the castle, you can enjoy individual dishes or a multi-course menu in a special way with perfectly matched drink pairings.
Address: Schloss Wickrath 17, 41189 Mönchengladbach
Mandarin Garden
Chinese cuisine is served to guests in the Mandarin Garden, Trompeterallee 4 to 6. At your table, you’ll find an individual buffet from which everyone can choose their favorite dish. You can also choose from the menu, which is freshly prepared in the kitchen. Even vegetarians will find a nice selection at the Mandarin Garden. The cozy atmosphere of the restaurant invites you to sit back and enjoy the culinary experience to the fullest.
Address: Mandarin Garden, Trompeterallee 4 – 6, 41189 Mönchengladbach
Wickrather Brauhaus
Those in the mood for hearty cuisine will be in good hands at the Wickrather Brauhaus on Wickrathberger Straße 6. In a typical brewery atmosphere, you can enjoy rump steak, pork knuckle, Himmel un Äd (a kind of ‘heaven and the earth’), and other Rhenish delicacies. A delicious beer or non-alcoholic beverage perfectly complements the hearty meal.
Address: Wickrather Brauhaus, Wichrathberger Straße 6, 41189 Mönchengladbach
Alexander der Große, Rossweide 7, is not a restaurant serving German cuisine. Rather, guests are served Greek specialties. In addition to cevapcici, the menu also includes Greek-style steak and an extensive grilled platter. Side dishes such as salad and the famous Djuvec rice are also available. The cozy ambiance invites you to linger and feast.
Address: Alexander der Große, Rossweide 7, 41189 Mönchengladbach
Irodion
Guests can also enjoy Greek cuisine at Irodion, located at Rheindahlener Straße 11. The restaurant has a large winter garden directly adjacent to the cozy dining room. In summer, Greek specialties can also be enjoyed on the outdoor terrace. Meat specialties such as steak, cevapcici, or liver are freshly prepared on the grill. Extensive side dishes for every taste round off a meal at the Irodion restaurant in style.
Address: Irodion, Rheindahlener Straße 11, 41189 Mönchengladbach