BERGPARK WILHELMSHÖHE - CASTLE AND PARK OF WILHELMSHÖHE
This superb site, dominated by the famous statue of Hercules, was classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013. This elegant castle of classic architecture dates back to the end of the 18th century. It was the residence of the electorate princes of Hesse, and a century before it was transformed into a museum. The canvases that now adorn the walls of this golden prison make it one of the most important galleries in Europe. Dürer and Cranach, the Flemish masters, Rubens, Jordaens and Van Dyck, Rembrandt and Hals. Symbol of the city, the statue of Hercules has been enthroned here since 1717, and all this considerable collection of buildings, parks, fountains, waterfalls, etc., gives an idea of the Baroque spirit and its achievements. A small but baroque detail, this arrangement would have been so expensive that all traces of the expenses were burned!
The current castle was built between 1786 and 1798 according to the plans of the architect Louis Simon of Ry (Weißensteinflügel and Kirch wing) and Heinrich Christoph Jussow (centre). The wings are long and narrow with circular buildings at the end.
Napoleon III spent his captivity there after the battle of Sedan, Wilhelm II, then adolescent and student with Cassel, during his studies.
On the international level, it is known for its current use as a museum, among others the collection of antiques and paintings, old Masters picture gallery. Also note the museum Weißensteinflügel only remaining spaces authentic landgrave.