Kiel Castle

Residence of the Gottorf Dukes

The roots of Kiel Castle reach back to the 13th century, when a fortress was built on the fjord to protect the young city. Over the centuries the complex was rebuilt several times and served the Dukes of Schleswig-Holstein-Gottorf as a residence. With the Renaissance Rantzau wing, the castle gained a stately form. Significant princes resided here at times, and the castle was a setting for courtly life. This long history makes the site one of the most historically important places in the city, even though only remnants of the old fabric survive.

Rebuilt in Modern Form

The castle was severely destroyed in the Second World War. During reconstruction in the 1960s, a deliberately modern architecture was chosen that integrated only parts of the historic Rantzau wing. The result is a striking contrast between old wall remnants and sober post-war construction. This solution was controversial at the time but is now regarded as a testimony to the reconstruction era. Anyone looking closely will discover the historic building elements between the modern façades and understand how greatly the war changed the city's face.

Cultural Center on the Fjord

Today Kiel Castle serves as an events and concert venue. The large castle hall hosts symphony concerts, congresses, festivals and cultural events. Thanks to its location right on the fjord shore, cultural enjoyment combines with maritime ambience, and a walk by the water beckons after an event. From the castle you can reach the city center, the Alter Markt and the Maritime Museum within a few minutes' walk. Anyone planning program and dates should check the events overview in advance, as the castle is mainly used in the evenings and at weekends.