Altes Schloss

Giessen, Germany, Germany

---

Altes Schloss in Gießen is a reconstructed medieval water castle from the 14th century that originally served as part of the town’s fortifications and later as a secondary residence and administrative seat for the landgraves of Hesse.

It was badly damaged by bombing in World War II but carefully rebuilt in the 1970s, retaining its historic appearance and now functioning as the main home of the Museum für Gießen, which includes the Gemäldegalerie (picture gallery), collections of art and handicrafts, and changing exhibitions.

The complex features the old “Heidenturm” or “Diebsturm,” a four‑story tower with a dungeon that visitors can climb for a view over parts of Gießen and the nearby Botanischer Garten, while the surrounding courtyard and halls are also used for cultural events and occasional private functions.