Ballenstedt Castle is a late baroque castle ensemble, which sits enthroned on the castle hill above the town, glowing in yellow. A magnificent chestnut avenue leads you to the former summer residence of the House of Anhalt, which earned the town the nickname “Cradle of Anhalt”.

In the “Courtly Living” exhibition, you can experience the life and living situation of the Ascanian family shortly before and after 1900 in seven impressive rooms. In addition to the three-winged palace building from the early 18th century, the palace ensemble includes a palace theater and a magnificent park, which is considered an important example of 18th and 19th century garden art.

Ballenstedt Castle was built on the medieval castle and monastery complex of the ancestors of the Anhalt dynasty, the Ascanians. The castle tower of the former monastery church and the Romanesque crypt, which houses the tomb of Margrave Albrecht the Bear, have been preserved. An interactive exhibition illustrates the life and work of probably the most important Ascanian.

Another interesting exhibition offers exciting insights into the hunting and forestry history of the Anhalt forest. Something special awaits you in the north wing of the castle: a film museum tells the fascinating history of cinema and film over the past 100 years.

Tip: Allow yourself enough time to explore the town of Ballenstedt.