The Castle

[Translate to Englisch:] Schloss Glücksburg Park

Schloss Glücksburg, erected between 1583 and 1587 under Duke Johann the Younger (1545-1622), belongs to the most significant castle complexes in Northern Europe. The builder, Nikolaus Karies, erected the castle on the site of a former Cistercian monastery (Rudekloster). Granite from the medieval construction was re-used in the present foundations and many of the old bricks also found further use in today’s white-plastered brick building.

The castle was named after the motto of the Duke: “Gott Gebe Glück Mit Frieden” (God grant happiness and peace). The initial letters of the motto can be found, together with the Duke’s Coat of Arms, above the entrance. Next to them are the Coats of Arms of the Duke’s two wives: on the left, the one of his first wife’s family of Braunschweig-Lüneburg and, on the right, the one of the Electorate of Saxony, his second wife’s family.

Over the years, the many activities of our family have left their marks on the castle, making it special even to this day. Even now, in our fast-moving and technical age, this splendid Renaissance building cannot fail but to awaken curiosity in the many-faceted history and culture which has evolved here throughout the ages. The magnificent historical exhibits all are fascinating but also encourage engagement with historical issues in order to understand the present better.

In addition to the traditional visit to the museum, Schloss Glücksburg offers plenty of options for any occasion. You are welcome to book our large ballrooms, the wedding room, our chapel, or the orangery for your private or corporate events. The earnings contribute to the Schloss Glücksburg Foundation’s central task: the maintenance and upkeep of the building and its grounds and the preservation of the Glücksburg cultural heritage for future generations. We look forward to your visit and hope you will allow the inimitable atmosphere of Schloss Glücksburg to work its magic on you.