Castles of Augustusburg and Falkenlust in Brühl
In Brühl, a small town in the Rhineland, architecture, sculpture, painting and garden design have been brought together to create a first-class work of art. A fine example of a German rococo ensemble, Augustusburg Palace and Falkenlust hunting lodge, along with their baroque gardens, have been inscribed in the UNESCO World Heritage list since 1984.
A favourite residence of Clemens August, Archbishop-Elector of Cologne, Augustusburg – often referred to simply as Brühl Palace – was one of the first significant rococo buildings in Germany. The construction of the palace began in 1725 on the ruins of a medieval moated castle, but it would take more than 40 years to complete.
Time enough to commission the talents of renowned European artists such as Balthasar Neumann, who designed the magnificent staircase. A marvellous creation full of dynamism and elegance, it is one of the crowning achievements of the German baroque.
The 18th century baroque gardens were created by Dominique Girard, modelled on French designs.
They are among the most beautiful of their kind and can be surveyed in all their glory from the palace terrace. Just a short walk from Augustusburg Palace on the edge of a small secluded forest is the delightful Falkenlust hunting lodge. Built in a relatively short time, between 1729 and 1737, it is one of the most intimate and exquisite creations of the German rococo era. The archbishop came here to indulge his passion for falconry and, after a thrilling day of hunting, members of the court would gather here for supper and games.
If you are more passionate about music than falconry, you should ideally visit Augustusburg Palace between May and August when the Brühl palace concerts take place.
Palaces of Augustusburg and Falkenlust Brühl
UNESCO World Heritage since 1984
From the selection criteria
Augustusburg and Falkenlust are an outstanding example of the castle building architecture of the 18th century.
They represent the first important
creations of Rococo style in Germany and were a model for a large number of courts for more than half a century.
Information and Contact
UNESCO-Welterbestätte Schlösser Augustusburg und Falkenlust
Schlossstraße 6
50321 Brühl
Tel. +49 2232-440 00