Senden Castle

Senden Castle

Magnificent linden trees, blood beeches, and plane trees line the path to Senden Castle. This unusual water castle dates back to its oldest structural components from the second half of the 15th century. Here it impresses with the oldest preserved three-stage gable – a characteristic example of the gable design of many castle houses in the Münsterland.

Old Westphalian noble family

The three-winged castle in Senden has a history spanning over 1000 years. The complex consists of the manor house, a courtyard, two moats, and a fore-castle area, featuring structural components from the 12th to the 18th centuries. Around 1350, the castle transitioned to the lords of Senden, an old Westphalian noble family. The heiress of this family married the heir of the Drosten zu Kakesbeck at the end of the 14th century, who was also related to the Drosten zu Vischering. This led to the formation of a new branch of the family: the Droste zu Senden. Shortly thereafter, the construction of the complex began. The newest part is the so-called Mannenhaus, built in 1719, which today captivates with its charmingly crooked appearance.

Throughout the centuries, both Senden and the complex itself have repeatedly been sites of military conflicts. The castle has a diverse history with various owners and uses.

The most exciting construction site in the Münsterland

Today, Senden Castle is coming to life again: The non-profit association Schloss Senden e.V. took over the entire castle complex in 2015 to transform it into a cultural and educational venue. Visitors can witness the ongoing restoration process and experience how the castle is blossoming from a "lost place" into a new highlight. Regular concerts, themed tours, and other seasonal events are already taking place.

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