Schloß Lautereck

Löwenstein, Germany

---

Schloß Lautereck in Löwenstein, Germany, is a Renaissance water castle built in the 16th century by the Counts of Löwenstein in the Murr Valley surrounded by the Löwenstein Mountains.

The exact construction date is unclear, but it was known to require repairs by the late 17th century. It originally featured a broad rectangular moat, a Gothic entrance, and a curtain wall enclosing the courtyard, which are no longer fully preserved.

From 1844 to 1939, it remained in private ownership, then was used by the Reich Labour Service and later for public purposes such as refugee accommodation and schooling. Today, it serves mainly cultural purposes, hosting a music school, adult education programs, exhibitions, and private events like weddings, while the outdoor areas remain freely accessible.

Some parts of the historic water-filled moat have dried, but the site presents a blend of historical significance and modern cultural use.