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Historical places #3 in Düren

Burgau Castle

4.5 · 1,702 reviews
A quiet and refined cultural enclave.
Burgau Castle, Von-Aue-Straße 1, 52355 Düren
Interesting facts
1

The current Renaissance core was built between 1530 and 1550 by the Von Elmpt family.

2

The castle was largely reduced to ruins by heavy bombing during the autumn of 1944.

3

Reconstruction efforts took over twenty years, starting in the 1970s and finishing in 1999.

4

The moat system is fed by the Inde River, a tributary of the Rur.

5

Local administrative records indicate the site has been used for residential and defense purposes since the 14th century.

Overview

Burgau Castle is a water castle located in the southern part of Düren, situated directly within the Burgauer Wald forest. The structure features a Renaissance-style main building constructed in the 16th century, replacing an earlier medieval fortification. Following extensive destruction during World War II, the castle underwent a comprehensive reconstruction process that concluded in the late 1990s. The site now serves as a municipal cultural center, hosting art exhibitions, chamber music concerts, and theatrical performances. The castle complex is surrounded by an artificial moat fed by the Inde River. It is managed by Düren Kultur and functions as a venue for civil wedding ceremonies. The architecture preserves a four-winged layout with a prominent corner tower and gabled facades. Visitors can access the surrounding parkland, which connects to the extensive woodland trails of the Düren region.

Photo spot

The reflection of the castle facade in the moat water from the western bridge.

Insider tips

Combine your visit with a hike through the adjacent Burgauer Wald.

Check the official calendar for temporary exhibition closures before visiting.

The inner courtyard offers the best acoustic experience for scheduled musical events.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to enter private event areas or office spaces not designated for public tours.

Good to know

The castle is frequently closed to the public during private events, weddings, and exhibition installations.

Etiquette

Maintain a quiet demeanor inside the cultural halls; formal attire is expected if attending a wedding or concert.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1-2 hours
Best time to visit
Late spring or early autumn for the best weather to explore the surrounding forest trails.
Address
Burgau Castle, Von-Aue-Straße 1, 52355 Düren
50.767, 6.500
Get directions
Details
Architectural StyleRenaissance
Key FeaturesMoated castle, four-winged layout, corner tower

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1-2 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late spring or early autumn for the best weather to explore the surrounding forest trails..

The reflection of the castle facade in the moat water from the western bridge.

Close by you'll find Bubenheimer Spieleland, Grabeskirche St. Cyriakus, Willy-Brandt-Park (Stadtpark).