Gemen Youth Castle

Gemen Youth Castle in Borken is certainly one of the most extraordinary castles in Münsterland. The walls shine brightly in the sun. The castle, which is more than 900 years old, is surrounded by a mighty moat, which opens up marvellous perspectives of the building as you walk around it.

The castle from different angles

The castle grounds are freely accessible all year round. A walk around the building is highly recommended. Each side offers a completely new perspective, which surprises many visitors later when they look at their holiday photos. The best way for cyclists to experience Gemen Youth Castle is on a cycle tour along the 100 Castles Route.

Let yourself be inspired

Jugendburg Gemen on the 100 Castles Route
© Münsterland e.V. / Philipp Fölting
Fireplace with impressive facings
© Münsterland e.V. / Philipp Fölting
View of the main castle
© Münsterland e.V. / Philipp Fölting
Gemen Castle
© Münsterland e.V. / Jörn Berding
Historic hall inside
© Münsterland e.V. / Philipp Fölting
The outdoor area of the castle is freely accessible all year round
© Münsterland e.V. / Philipp Fölting

A castle with an eventful history

The castle was built by the noblemen of Gemen. The oldest part of the complex is the keep from 1280. Since the 12th century, the history of the Lords of Gemen has been characterised by constant disputes with the prince-bishops of Münster, who have also been the secular lords of this region since that time. In order to preserve their imperial immediacy, the owners of the castle repeatedly and successfully entered into changing alliances. The building changed hands several times until Imperial Baron Johann Ignatz Franz von Landsberg-Velen bought it on 24 May 1822.

Von Landsberg-Velen was elevated to the rank of count by King Frederick William IV of Prussia on 15 October 1840 and subsequently called himself Count of Landsberg-Velen and Gemen. The estate is still owned by the von Landsberg-Velen and Gemen family today. Since 1946, Gemen Youth Castle has been leased to the diocese of Münster, which still uses it today as a Catholic youth education centre.

Plan your holiday

Map | Gemen Youth Castle

Service at the Gemen Youth Castle

  • for groups
  • Overnight stay possible
  • 100 Castles Route
  • Park at the house
  • Spring
  • Autumn
  • Summer
  • Winter

Tour information

  • Gemen Youth Castle cannot be visited from the inside.
  • However, the outside area is freely accessible. A footpath circles the entire building and offers a variety of beautiful perspectives.

4 tips for Gemen Youth Castle

  • The"Borkener Landpartie" cycle tour takes you from the castle through the gentle countryside around Borken.
  • The"FARB" in the old town hall of Botrken brings the town's history to life. The modern exhibition will surprise you.
  • Borken's Pröbsting Lake is a marvellous leisure area for families. Playgrounds, pedal boats, a beer garden and a bathing beach ensure that there is never a dull moment.
  • Gemen Castle is one of the most beautiful buildings on the 100 Castles Route. The western route combines 322 kilometres of magnificent historical buildings with tranquil nature experiences.

Sights around the castle

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I am a green castle

My castle grounds are open to the public. With my nearby green spaces or forests, I offer you a great nature experience.

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Your questions about Gemen Youth Castle

There is free parking just a few metres from the entrance to Gemen Youth Castle on Coesfelder Straße.

Unfortunately, it is not possible to visit the interior of Gemen Youth Castle. An outside tour is possible at any time. A beautiful circular route leads around the castle and along the Bocholter Aa.

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