Neufraunhofen: Castle Ensemble and Culture

Castle and Castle Church: A History of Construction in Several Stages

Neufraunhofen Castle was built from 1393 onwards. The Catholic castle church of St John the Baptist and the Immaculate Conception dates back to an initial Gothic structure from around 1409. The nave and west choir were rebuilt in the Baroque style in 1709/14; the façade and tower were given a Rococo design around 1753. These dates show that the church’s history comprises several clearly distinct periods of construction.

One striking detail inside is the altarpiece, which depicts the Virgin Mary wearing a unique straw-embroidered mantle. Those particularly interested in church art can make this motif a focal point of their visit to the castle ensemble. Alongside the dates relating to the building’s history, this unusual feature offers a different perspective on a visit.

The buildings around the church also tell of different uses and periods. To the west of the castle church stands the former Capuchin hospice, a simple brick rectangular building with a steeply pitched roof, dating from 1716/17. The former cow and horse stable in the castle ensemble was built in 1754; its major renovation and conversion were completed in 2009. The two buildings can be distinguished by their different functions and dates of construction, and should not be confused with the church.

Park, Votive Chapel and Getting Your Bearings

The castle park is a Baroque landscape, expanded in 1830/40 and again between 1880 and 1914. The votive chapel stands in the park: a Neo-Gothic, exposed-brick building with a roof turret and pointed spire, dating from around 1880. For those interested in culture, it adds another architectural style to the historic castle surroundings. Details of its design and date of construction offer specific points of interest if you would like to explore different architectural features during your stay.

Advance arrangements are required to visit the restored stables and the castle courtyard around the lilac rondel. The castle church is accessed through the castle courtyard; a church foundation opened it to the public in 1921. Keep these details separate in your plans: one concerns visits to the stables and courtyard, the other the route into the church.

Advent Market, Events and the Marstall

The Neufraunhofen Support Association holds an Advent market at the castle every two years. Various events also take place in the castle church in connection with it. The Advent market is held every two years and is accompanied by various events in the castle church.

Thanks to its good acoustics, the Marstall at Neufraunhofen Castle can accommodate large gatherings for celebrations, talks or markets. The Fraunhofen Hall on the upper floor can seat up to 200 people for a buffet and dancing. If these options matter to your travel plans, distinguish between the Support Association’s Advent market and the other uses of the Marstall mentioned here.

An Additional Trip to the Burglochschanze

The Burglochschanze is located in the surrounding area. From the recommended parking spot, an approximately 800-metre walk leads there; sturdy footwear is recommended. Take the approximate distance into account when planning your day. The trip offers a different focus from the history of the castle ensemble and may be a factor in choosing your holiday destination alongside the cultural programme.

A holiday apartment in Neufraunhofen is a good search option for travellers choosing the area for its castle ensemble and history. Consider whether the church and its construction phases, the ensemble’s special features, or a planned trip to the Burglochschanze will be the main focus of your stay.

For the wider travel overview: Velden.