Falkenlust Hunting Castle, built in 1733 by the architect Francois de Cuvillier, is considered the first German example of the Rococo style. Together with the Augustusburg Palace and the park, it forms the UNESCO-protected architectural and landscape complex of Bruhl, located in North Westphalia on the Middle Rhine.
Falkenlust Hunting Castle (Jagdschloss Falkenlust), erected in 1733 by an architect Francois de Cuvillier, is considered the first German example of the rococo style. Together with Augustusburg Palace and the park, it is a UNESCO-protected architectural and landscape complex of the city Brühllocated in North Westphalia on the Middle Rhine.
The name "Falkenlust", translated meaning "falconry fun," the castle was by no means accidental. Breeding of hunting birds and hunting were the favorite pastimes of its founder - the Cologne archbishop and elector Clemens August von Wittelsbach. The nobleman from the first day of his reign had no sympathy for the Bonn residence, which traditionally housed the imperial princes of Cologne. He wanted to get comfortable and luxuriously surrounded by nature, which would combine the main duties with amusement and hunting.
The way to make his dreams come true was inspired by the idea of his predecessor and uncle Joseph Clemens von Wittelsbach, shortly before his death, who started the restructuring of the old fortress in the Ball, which was the property of the Cologne archdiocese. Instead of reconstructing the ancient fortifications, the high-ranking aristocrat decided to erect two new castles - the main luxurious residence and a private building. Combining the palaces in a single complex was supposed to be a picturesque fashionable park.
A supporting intimate role was assigned to Falkenlust Castle. He is more modest in comparison with flashy luxurious Augustusburg, but he beat the “brother” in the championship. Francois de Cuvillier designed by Falkenlust in 1729, and four years later it was built, while the complex interiors of the main residence were created over several decades. However, the premises of the hunting "house" are decorated in accordance with the canons of the Rococo style.
Strong aesthetic impression central staircase of the castle, which is a real work of art. It is decorated with almost ten thousand tiles with images of falconry scenes, executed in blue and white. In chic finishes and furnishings Lacquer cabinet Eastern motifs are clearly traced, which reflects the increased enthusiasm for Asian art in the 18th century. AT Oval Salon having a form corresponding to the name, one can see portraits of representatives of the Wittelsbach dynasty, inserted into richly decorated frames.
The castle has many extensions that form the courtyard. They were needed to house huntsmen, servants, and hunting birds. These premises currently occupy falconry museum. There is an observation deck on the roof of the building, from where it was possible to observe scenes of tracking and harassment of wild animals.
Falkenlust was used not only in the days of hunting. Its pleasant relaxing atmosphere allowed the elector to successfully conduct secret political negotiations, as well as arrange meetings with favorites.
Did not forget Clemens August and about serving God. The ensemble of the palace includes an elegant palace located near its entrance chapeloctagonal in plan. It was built in 1730 by the same architect. The interior of the building is decorated in blue tones and richly decorated with mosaics made of minerals and shells.
Between the two castles, as the archbishop desired, a large a park, on the part of Falkenlust accepting more free, informal, harmonizing with the wild nature. A 2 km long romantic alley leads from the hunting palace to Augustusburg.
Falkenlust Hunting Castle (Jagdschloss Falkenlust)
An Schloss Falkenlust, 50321 Brühl, Deutschland
