Hohengebraching Castle

In 1573, Abbot Blasius of St. Emmeram had a three-story castle built in Hohengebraching as a place of recreation for his fellow monks. In 1727, the castle was extended with a new building to the east (today's castle in Hohengebraching) and served as the summer residence of the abbots until 1811. After this, ownership passed to the Princes of Thurn und Taxis.

The castle chapel, dedicated to St. George, was built in 1727. It is a rectangular hall with a retracted, semi-circular apse. The interior is decorated with rich stucco work by Franz Josef Roth and ceiling frescoes by Christoph Thomas Scheffler. The frescoes depict scenes from the life of St. George and allegories of faith and virtue.

The Altar

The high altar, also from 1727, is a masterpiece of Baroque art. It features a painting by Cosmas Damian Asam, depicting St. George slaying the dragon. The altar is flanked by sculptures of Saints Emmeram and Wolfgang.

The castle garden, laid out in the 18th century, is a Baroque garden with a symmetrical design. It features a central fountain, parterres, and avenues of trees. The garden offers a beautiful view of the surrounding landscape.

The castle in Hohengebraching has a rich history, closely linked to the Benedictine Abbey of St. Emmeram. For centuries, it served as a place of retreat and recreation for the abbots and monks. After the secularization in 1803, the castle changed hands several times and underwent various alterations.

The Benedictine Abbey of St. Emmeram, founded in the 8th century, was one of the most important monasteries in Bavaria. It played a significant role in the cultural and spiritual life of the region. The abbots of St. Emmeram were powerful figures, often holding high political offices.

Secularization

In 1803, during the secularization of church property in Bavaria, the Abbey of St. Emmeram was dissolved. Its possessions, including the castle in Hohengebraching, were confiscated by the state. This marked a turning point in the history of the castle, as it lost its ecclesiastical function.

After secularization, the castle passed into private ownership. Among its notable owners were the Princes of Thurn und Taxis, a prominent noble family with extensive landholdings. They used the castle as a summer residence and hunting lodge. Over the years, the castle underwent various renovations and additions, reflecting the changing tastes of its owners.