Thirty rooms. That’s how many the Borbachschlösschen boasts. Imagine a place built in 1867. Initially a simple guesthouse. This small castle nestled in Witten’s Annen district. It’s not just any building though. The Borbachschlösschen holds a fascinating history. A story woven into its very stones.
Johann Gerhard Sticht a Kaufmann built the original structure. He envisioned a place for rest and refreshment. A quiet escape in the Borbachtal. But the Borbachschlösschen wasn’t destined to remain small. In 1912 it underwent a major expansion. The transformation resulted in the stunning architecture we see today.
Gothic-style pointed arches grace the facade. Ruhr sandstone erkers add elegance. Inside intricate stucco ceilings and columns speak of the Historismus era. Stained glass windows hint at the Art Nouveau influence. It’s a beautiful blend of styles. A testament to the architectural tastes of the early 20th century.
The Borbachschlösschen played an unexpected role in the 1930s and 40s. It housed a room for religious services. The Paderborn General Vicariate approved its use in 1939. A harmonium an altar and a portable confessional furnished the space. Even after World War II damage the Catholic Church continued to hold services there.
In the 1950s the Borbachschlösschen became a popular garden restaurant. It was a favorite spot for day trips. It retained this function until 2010. Now it serves as a unique venue. Seminars concerts and readings take place within its walls. The Hasenkamp family current residents extensively restored the building. Their family history is closely tied to the region.
A large oil painting depicting Haus Weitmar in Bochum adorns the entrance hall. It’s a reminder of the family’s deep roots. Wennemar von Hasenkamp constructed the family’s original seat in the late 15th century. The Borbachschlösschen’s architecture and furnishings reflect its rich past. The restored stucco ceilings are a highlight. So are the numerous columns with ionic capitals. Many pieces of furniture from the Warrings manufactory remain. A collection of 18th-century genre paintings completes the setting. The cellar’s stonework showcasing 19th-century craftsmanship is impressive. The massive sandstone blocks provide a naturally balanced climate. The first floor boasts a library covering more than 300 square meters. It houses over 3000 modern books and 500 antique volumes.
The Borbachschlösschen stands as a testament to history. It’s a place where eras blend seamlessly. A charming blend of architectural styles. It continues to be a treasure. A jewel in the heart of Witten. A place worth exploring. A small castle with a big story.