The residence was built under the direction of the Landkomtur Carl Heinrich von Hornstein.
It is one of the few remaining examples of a complete Teutonic Order administrative residence in Germany.
The Palace Church of St. George contains a rare double-gallery structure.
The interior contains stucco work by the renowned artist Franz Joseph Roth.
The site was granted to the Bavarian crown in 1815 after the dissolution of the Teutonic Order's holdings in the region.
The building features a specialized Orangerie that historically housed citrus trees and exotic plants during winter months.
The Ellingen Residence stands as one of the most significant examples of Baroque architecture in Franconia, built between 1718 and 1721 for the Teutonic Order. Serving as the seat of the Landkomtur of the Teutonic Order, the building displays a distinct three-winged layout surrounding a central courtyard. The interior preserves original high-quality stucco work, frescoes, and a grand ceremonial staircase designed by Franz Joseph Roth. It functioned as the administrative headquarters for the Order's territorial possessions in the region. Visitors can view the opulent state rooms, the palace church of St. George, and the well-preserved Orangerie. It represents a transition from the late Baroque to the early Rococo stylistic periods. The palace served briefly as a royal residence for the Bavarian General Field Marshal Carl Philipp von Wrede in the early 19th century.
The main courtyard facing the central portal provides the best perspective of the Baroque facade.
Focus on the ceremonial staircase as it is the architectural centerpiece of the interior.
Explore the Orangerie garden, which provides a quieter view of the palace architecture.
Check for special seasonal guided tours that offer access to areas restricted during standard visits.
Do not attempt to enter private administrative wings that are marked as off-limits to tourists.
Closed on Mondays; traditionally closed during the winter months of December and January.
Photography is restricted inside the rooms; maintain a quiet demeanor in the palace church.
