The moated castle of Brake with its tower visible from afar is a real eye-catcher. It is not only an impressive landmark of the old Hanseatic town of Lemgo, but also a symbol of one of the most dazzling and exciting periods in history - the Renaissance.
Count Simon VI zur Lippe (1554-1613), who resided at Brake Castle, was an educated man. The envoy, court councillor and art agent of the then Emperor Rudolf II was very interested in art and science. He owned an extensive library and observed the stars from the tower. In 1584, he had his residence built in the Weser Renaissance style on the foundations of the medieval castle of Brac. At the time, Simon could not have imagined that his castle would be partially demolished three centuries later, that the inventory would be auctioned off and that a princely model brewery would be set up in the east wing.
The castle has been home to the Weser Renaissance Museum since 1989. Visitors can experience the dawn of a new era here. In the 16th and 17th centuries, people were curious to explore new shores. The pursuit of progress found its way into people's minds. Art and culture were revolutionized. The desire for knowledge grew. The printing press was invented, and research and science gained in importance.
Paintings and sculptures
The collection of the Weser Renaissance Museum Schloss Brake brings this time of change to life and brings it into the present. On display are impressive paintings by famous painters such as Cornelis van Haarlem, Hans Rottenhammer, Paulus Moreelse and Hans Vredeman de Vries, to name but a few. There are also sculptures, selected pieces of furniture, exceptional arts and crafts and magnificent fashion. In addition, a mysterious cabinet of curiosities and an alchemist's laboratory revive the spirit of past centuries.
Participation is a top priority at the Weser Renaissance Museum. Visitors can even take a seat at a long table, take a selfie on the photo wall or slip into a Renaissance costume. In addition to the permanent exhibition, the museum also regularly hosts unusual special exhibitions and cultural events.
Tip: Find out more about Simon VI and the Weser Renaissance Museum Schloss Brake in Lemgo here.
