67 Knight’s Chapel / Altenstein Castle near Bad Liebenstein

67 Knight’s Chapel / Altenstein Castle near Bad Liebenstein

Built in Gothic style in 1798/99, the Knight’s Chapel was one of the first park structures commissioned by Duke George I in the Altenstein Landscape Park.

Its columns, arches, and rose window are intricately carved from wood.

Although a cross was placed atop the chapel in 1798 and its windows were decorated with biblical stained glass until 1891, the chapel was never intended for religious services.

Instead, the weapons, banners, and the coat of arms above the entrance door—made of stucco—reflected the romanticized medieval era.

Historical furnishings suggest that until 1803, the chapel was used as a meeting place for the Freemason lodge under Duke George I.

From the exterior-restored chapel (1998/99), visitors can enjoy a stunning panoramic view of the landscape park, including its imposing trees, Devil’s Bridge, Altenstein Castle (Model 46), remnants of a medieval fortress, and a distant view over Schweina and the Werra Valley.

 

Further information:
Castle and Park Administration Altenstein
Information Center Altenstein
36448 Bad Liebenstein
Tel.: +49 36961 / 7 25 13
Fax: +49 36961 / 3 34 08
www.thueringerschloesser.de