Manor house in Schwarzenau

Schwarzenau manor house has had an eventful history. The current structure was built in 1788. In the centuries that followed, it served as a dower residence, summer residence and hunting lodge for the Sayn-Wittgenstein-Hohenstein family. In addition to this, the magnificent building right on the Eder river was at times a residence and seat of government for the Count’s family, particularly during the period of radical Pietism.

The facilities also include the timber-framed, long agricultural buildings along the road, which date from the early 18th century. Between these there is a lawn area with a stock of trees that are nearly 100 years old. Parallel to the Eder river, a high flood wall was erected.

The property is now privately owned by Bernhart, Prince of Sayn-Wittgenstein-Hohenstein. His family can look back on an ancient history. The extensive royal house can be traced back to the 12th century. Their ancestral seat, Wittgenstein Castle, is near Bad Laasphe above the Lahntal valley.