124 Schlösschen Herzogstuhl bei Hummelshain

124 Schlösschen Herzogstuhl bei Hummelshain

Nestled in the forest of Rieseneck, the Herzogstuhl (Duke’s Chair) rises above the treetops, making it the striking centerpiece of the woodland.

This extraordinary building was commissioned by Duke Ernst II of Saxony-Altenburg around 1917.

Its design was inspired by the Topplerschlösschen in Rothenburg ob der Tauber.

According to a document discovered during the restoration of the weather vane, the Duke built this tower as a retreat for peace and tranquility during the war.

However, some mischievous rumors claimed that the Herzogstuhl was merely a pleasure palace.

A narrow stone staircase leads to the cellar, passing through a wardrobe, with its upper entrance disguised as a toilet.

It might also serve as a fireproof emergency exit, as fire protection measures were known at that time.

 

The building consists of eight levels:

  1. Cellar room with a hidden entrance
  2. Servant’s kitchen
  3. Level with a drawbridge and an entrance door
  4. A small kitchen with a wood stove
  5. A social room with a tiled stove, leaded glass windows, and wooden decorative elements
  6. The Duke’s floor, including a bedroom and a small balcony
  7. -8. Simple, cozy sleeping rooms at the treetop level.

Nearby is the Rieseneck hunting lodge (Model 79), adding another historical element to the area.

 

Further Information:

ServiceCenter Saaleland
Margarethenstr. 7
07768 Kahla
Tel.: +49 36601 / 90 52 00
Fax: +49 36601 / 90 52 01
E-Mail: info@saaleland.de

Freundeskreis Rieseneck e. V.
Dorfstr. 26
07768 Kleineutersdorf

http://www.herzogstuhl-rieseneck.de