A map from 1741 tells the story

The “estates” surrounding the castle

A map dating from 1741 shows Ravensberg Castle and documents the associated lands surrounding the fortress. Castles were always accompanied by extensive estates. These properties and rights of use, which were owned by the sovereign, are referred to as “domains.” In earlier times, they served to provide for the castle’s inhabitants. Later, when the fortress lost its significance as a seat of power and administration, the rulers leased out the domains and thereby generated lucrative income. In addition to fields where grain was grown, these included pastures and meadows as well as ponds. There were also woodlands and areas where peat was harvested. The names of some parcels of land hint at their former use or nature: cattle once grazed on the “Kuhkamp,” crayfish were native to the “Kreps Teich,” and the “Sandt Brinck” suggests a sandy subsoil. The “lange Rott” north of the castle attests to land clearing efforts aimed at making formerly barren areas arable and suitable for agriculture.

The “Kuhof”—the bailiff’s residence and farmstead below the castle

In the 18th century, the bailiff of Ravensberg had leased these properties. He conducted his administrative affairs from the “Kuhof,” the farmstead belonging to the castle, or what was known as the “Vorwerk.” He also kept livestock there; among other things, he owned a flock of sheep. In addition, milling facilities were part of the estate. A bakehouse rounded out the Kuhof’s complex of buildings. Furthermore, the bailiff grew hops for brewing beer. In the first half of the 19th century, the Kuhof was demolished.

The "dominions"

The Outer Bailey

Defense and the Economy

Grethe Leefferman

A resident of Berghausen recounts...

In the 16th century, the ruler of Ravensberg owned numerous so-called “Eigenbehörige” in the vicinity of Ravensberg Castle. One of them, Grethe Leefferman from Borgholzhausen-Berghausen, recounts her life—which was at times marked by hardship—and what it meant to be a “Eigenbehörige.” Narrated by Miriam Schweika.