Schloss Schönau

Schönau Castle is a small moated castle in Richterich, a suburb of Aachen, that traces its origins to a late medieval three-wing complex. The present buildings were erected in 1732 by master builder Laurenz Mefferdatis on commission from Johann Gottfried von Blanche. Built of brick on a dressed-stone base, the estate stands out for its interlocking bluestone surrounds on the windows and doors and for a gabled central projection that forms the entrance. In the nineteenth century, two stylistically matching wings were added on the park side. After passing through a succession of owners from the Schönau, Millendonk, Blanche, and Broich families, the castle now belongs to the city of Aachen. It is used by local associations for cultural events and invites visitors to take a look at the history of the area.