Landesburg Lechenich

Landesburg Lechenich, nestled in the picturesque town of Erftstadt in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, is a gem of historical significance and architectural splendor. This captivating moated castle, surrounded by serene parklands, stands as a testament to the region's rich medieval history and the grandeur of the archbishops and electors of Cologne who once resided within its walls.

The Origins of Landesburg Lechenich

The story of Landesburg Lechenich begins in the early 12th century with its predecessor, a formidable castle referred to as curia in 1138. Located in the southwest of the present-day old town, this initial fortress was built on a motte, encircled by broad water-filled moats fed by the Rotbach, now known as Mühlenbach. The castle served as a combined administrative and judicial center for the Lechenich district, with an Amtmann (bailiff) and Schultheiß (mayor) overseeing its operations.

This original stronghold, later known as the old castle, played a crucial role in the territorial conflicts of the 13th century, withstanding multiple sieges. However, it met its demise in 1301 during a dispute between King Albert I and the Archbishop of Cologne, Wigbold von Holte, leading to its destruction by the forces of Count Gerhard of Jülich.

The Construction of the New Landesburg

In 1306, Archbishop Heinrich II of Virneburg initiated the construction of a new castle within the town walls of Lechenich with the permission of King Albert. The imposing residential tower, often referred to as the keep or Bergfried, was completed between 1306 and 1317. Subsequent archbishops, Walram of Jülich and Wilhelm of Gennep, further fortified the castle, transforming it into a castellated stronghold with two wide moats for added protection.

The construction utilized field-fired bricks, a technique reintroduced to Germany from Italy by the Hohenstaufen dynasty. This method made Landesburg Lechenich one of the first major structures in the region to employ such bricks. The castle's corners and window frames were accentuated with trachyte from the Drachenfels, adding to its architectural elegance. Notably, gravestones from the abandoned Jewish cemetery in Cologne were repurposed as building materials, with the well-preserved gravestone of Mar Jacob still visible at the gate of the outer bailey.

Residence of the Archbishops

Unlike other administrative and defensive castles in the Electorate of Cologne, Landesburg Lechenich served as a residence for the archbishops, who used it for representation and official functions. The grandeur of the residence hall made it ideal for receiving homage, granting fiefs, making appointments, delivering judgments, and hosting diplomats. Between 1351 and 1381, the castle frequently hosted meetings of the sworn members of the Maas-Rhine Land Peace Alliance.

Throughout the 15th and 16th centuries, the castle welcomed several distinguished guests, including King Sigismund in 1414 on his way to his coronation in Aachen, King Frederick III in 1442 during his coronation journey, and Emperor Charles V in 1543 en route to Düren.

The Outer Bailey

The outer bailey of Landesburg Lechenich housed the castle's economic buildings. The castle courtyard was an episcopal estate, with the produce from its lands partly supplying the archbishop's kitchen. From the 16th century onwards, the castle lands were leased out, and revenues from livestock sales, particularly oxen and wool, supported the castle's household.

A relatively small permanent garrison of 16 people resided at the castle, including the Amtmann, cellarer, under-cellarer, burgrave, gatekeeper, several guards, and servants. The Amtmann also maintained a contingent of 6-8 mounted soldiers.

Administrative and Judicial Center

As an administrative castle, Landesburg Lechenich served as the administrative center of the Lechenich district. The Amtmann, residing in the outer bailey's administrative house, was responsible for protecting the castle, town, and district, safeguarding the lord's roads, and administering justice. The cellarer managed financial accounts, building maintenance, and staff payments.

The castle was also the judicial seat of the district, with the Amtmann holding court four times a year. Residents were required to attend these sessions, where their rights and obligations were outlined, and complaints were addressed. The Amtmann, along with the court master, mayor, and jurors, imposed fines for legal violations and enforced the death penalty for serious crimes, particularly during the witch trials from 1626 to 1632.

Modern Developments

With the archbishops and electors establishing a permanent residence in Bonn, their visits to Lechenich became infrequent, mainly for hunting in the nearby Ville forest or brief stays during travels to the Bishopric of Liège. The castle's strategic importance waned, and it suffered significant damage during various conflicts, including the Thirty Years' War and the wars of Louis XIV of France.

By the late 17th century, the castle had lost its strategic value and was largely abandoned. A fire set by departing French troops in 1689 rendered the castle uninhabitable. The roof of the main castle and the keep were temporarily repaired, and the rooms were repurposed as grain storage. Over the 18th century, the castle fell into further disrepair, with only the prison tower, the Demeritenhaus, and the chapel in the southern wing remaining intact.

Today, Landesburg Lechenich stands as a historical monument, offering visitors a glimpse into its storied past and the architectural prowess of medieval Germany. Its tranquil surroundings and rich history make it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and casual tourists alike.