If you want to break up the dreary January weather in Berlin with a bit of culture, now is the perfect time. Not only are there various top musical events waiting for us in the capital, but there are also some beautiful destinations for excursions around the city. A visit to Brandenburg’s historic castles is particularly fitting for this time of year. Less well known than Potsdam’s magnificent buildings is Meseberg Castle. Nevertheless, it is a Baroque jewel in Brandenburg, known today primarily as a political stage. It is picturesquely situated on Lake Huwenow in the village of Meseberg, about 70 kilometers north of Berlin.
A “guest castle” for famous visitors
The castle was built around 1736 and is considered one of the most important Baroque buildings in the Mark Brandenburg. It also became famous through the poet Theodor Fontane, who described it as an enchanting castle in his “Wanderungen durch die Mark Brandenburg” (Walks through the Mark Brandenburg). After an eventful history and impending decay during the GDR era, it was extensively restored by the Messerschmitt Foundation for around 25 million euros after reunification .
Since 2007, the castle has served as a guest house for the German government. It is the place where German politicians receive important international guests or where the federal cabinet retreats for closed-door meetings lasting several days. Famous personalities such as Barack Obama and Vladimir Putin have already been guests here. The secluded location offers the ideal setting for confidential discussions.
No access for the public
Because Meseberg Castle is so important in the political world, it is now like a high-security wing. The grounds are strictly guarded and the interior is normally closed to the public. The only exception is on very rare open days – once a year (usually in summer). Then you can take part in guided tours and view some of the rooms in the castle.
Despite the barriers, a trip to the village of Meseberg is still worthwhile: a circular hiking trail leads around the lake and offers frequent unobstructed views of the rear of the castle and the well-tended Baroque garden.