A Room of Significance
The office and writing desk of Drachenburg Castle in Königswinter near Bonn, Germany, hold a special place in the castle’s history. This room, adorned with exquisite furniture and detailed woodwork, was used by the castle’s original owner, Baron Stephan von Sarter. Von Sarter, a successful banker and financier, designed the castle as a private residence and used the office as a space for his personal and business affairs.
A Working Office
Indeed, this was not merely a decorative room; it was a functional office where important decisions and correspondences took place. The writing desk, made of fine wood and intricately carved, served as the baron’s workspace. Here, he would pen letters, review documents, and manage his financial ventures. The office was equipped with all the necessities of a working space, reflecting the baron’s meticulous nature and attention to detail.
The Last Inhabitants
The last private inhabitants of Drachenburg Castle were the von Sarter family. After Baron von Sarter’s death in 1902, the castle changed hands several times. During the 1930s, the Christian School Brothers used it as a school, and the castle went through various phases of use and neglect. In the mid-20th century, the German Railway Boards’ college occupied the premises, and later, Paul Spinat, an eccentric entrepreneur, acquired the castle in the 1970s.
Spinat was known for his grandiose plans and unusual modifications, including the infamous staircase that led nowhere. Despite his efforts to revitalise the castle, he eventually left it in 1985. Since then, the castle has undergone extensive restoration and is now open to the public, allowing visitors to explore its rich history and architectural beauty.
A Restored Legacy
Today, the office and writing desk of Drachenburg Castle stand as a testament to the castle’s storied past. Through meticulous restoration efforts, the room has regained its former glory, offering visitors a glimpse into the life and work of its original owner.
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