[1]

Description

The extensive, game-rich Wermsdorf forests inspired Elector Christian II to build the first hunting lodge on the site of an old manor in the years 1607 - 1610. On the order of Elector Johann Georg I, it was redesigned and expanded from 1617 - 1627 in the Renaissance style. The architect Simon Hoffmann gave the castle its present form. Three irregular wings form the courtyard, numerous gables effectively enliven the facades. A special adornment is a bay window with intricate sandstone works. An octagonal staircase tower with a lantern and curved hood separates the two main wings. The tower does not fit symmetrically, but harmoniously into the gable row. In 1698, Elector August the Strong handed over the castle to his governor, Prince Anton Egon von Fürstenberg, with the order to prepare the local forests for the parforce hunt (chase hunt). After Fürstenberg´s death in 1716, August the Strong took over the castle with all hunting facilities to have it further extended for the electoral prince. With the construction of the Hubertusburg, the Old Hunting Castle lost its importance. After almost 150 years of housing various administrations and providing accommodation for servants, King Albert took over the castle in 1873 and had it set up again for his court hunts. After the princes were dispossessed in 1918, all the furniture was taken to Moritzburg or auctioned off. The rooms were mainly turned into apartments. In 1934, the Saxon Riding and Driving School moved from Leisnig to the Old Hunting Lodge. Today, the Old Hunting Lodge houses the local government office, the registry office and the tourist information centre. The west wing was renovated from 2021 - 2023. The colouring of the facade is based on old findings and shines again in the style of the Renaissance.