OH-W01 Lohra Castle

CODE: OH-W01

Lohra Castle, located in northern Thuringia, Germany, stands as one of the region’ s most representative medieval fortifications located in the vicinity of important trade routes that connected the medieval world of central Europe. Though its present form is modest, the castle continues to command a striking position within the hilly landscape near a natural reserve. With a history spanning over a thousand years, the site reflects multiple layers of architectural evolution, shaped by shifting political, economic, and social contexts over the centuries.

The architectural ensemble of Lohra
Castle presents a rich assortment of
historical styles, with elements dating
back to the 11th century. Among its
most remarkable features is a
Romanesque double-floored chapel
from the 12th century, an exceptional
structure that highlights early medieval
religious architecture. Traces of
medieval fortifications and towers, as
well as a Renaissance-era manor house,
further illustrate the site’ s
transformation from a medieval defensive stronghold into a more residential and agricultural complex.

Despite its historical significance, Lohra Castle was abandoned for several decades, leading to neglect and structural deterioration. In the 1990s, the site was rediscovered and revitalised through the efforts of Open Houses, which has since used the castle as a base for heritage conservation, cultural initiatives, and international collaboration. Today, it serves as a centre for hands-on restoration projects organised by Open Houses ́ daughter organisation European Heritage Volunteers, as well as training courses organised by partner educational institutions, and volunteer-driven maintenance efforts such as this workcamp, welcoming participants from across the world to engage with its unique built heritage.

Project description

Lohra Castle, with its centuries-old architecture and vast natural surroundings, is not only a site of historical significance but also a living, functioning place that requires continuous care and attention. This workcamp offers volunteers the opportunity to actively contribute to the sustainable management of the castle, ensuring that its grounds remain accessible, welcoming, and well

preserved. While this workcamp does not involve hands-on heritage conservation interventions, it plays an equally essential role in the long-term care of the site, allowing future visitors and guests to experience and appreciate Lohra Castle as a harmoniously maintained historic and natural space.

The volunteers will engage in
seasonal maintenance tasks,
including mowing and collecting
overgrown grass, clearing organic
material from public areas, and ensuring that the castle’s open spaces remain well-kept. These tasks are crucial for the aesthetic and functional upkeep of the historic ensemble, preserving the visual integrity of the castle and its surroundings. The work also extends to the general maintenance of communal spaces and halls, contributing to the overall experience of visitors who use the castle for cultural events, educational programmes, and retreats. The income generated from these activities is directly reinvested into the castle’s conservation and educational projects, meaning that the work of volunteers directly supports heritage preservation efforts, even if not through conservation itself.

Beyond the practical tasks, the workcamp offers a unique and immersive experience. When the castle closes its doors to the public in the evenings, it becomes the volunteers' home, a place where they can experience the privilege of inhabiting a medieval site. In this way, they take on the role of stewards, caring for the space as if it were their own. The experience encourages a sense of responsibility, ownership, and connection to heritage, reinforcing the idea that heritage sites thrive not only through large-scale restoration projects but also through the daily care and attention given to them by those who value their existence.

The projects of Open Houses are based on sustainable principles, ensuring that Lohra Castle is maintained not just as a historical monument but as a living environment where culture and nature coexist. The castle is surrounded by a vast natural protected area, making its preservation an effort that combines aspects of cultural and natural heritage conservation. Through their contributions, volunteers help safeguard the balance between history and nature, keeping Lohra Castle a welcoming place for future generations of visitors, researchers, and heritage enthusiasts.

ACCOMMODA TION:

shared rooms with 2 – 5 beds in 3 guest houses, warm shower (limited hot water), 1 camp kitchen (cold water), coal-burning stoves
LOCATION:

Next towns: Bleicherode (6 km), Nordhausen (20 km), Erfurt (75 km) Region: Thuringia
Next bus station: Großlohra, Friedrichslohra/Wartehalle
Next railway stations: Gebra/Hainleite (5 km), Wolkramshausen (12 km).

Next airports: Leipzig/Halle (LEJ, 155 km), Frankfurt/Main (FRA, 280 km), Berlin (BER, 300 km)
AGE: at least 18