Johannstorf Castle: 550,000 euros for reconstruction after fire disaster!

Johannstorf Castle: 550,000 euros for reconstruction after fire disaster!

A devastating fire has reduced the baroque Johannstorf Castle in the Northwest Mecklenburg district to rubble and ash. On March 4, 2025, a fire broke out, largely destroying the roof structure and the interior of the historic building. Only the brick walls of the former magnificent building still stand. Despite the dramatic situation, there is hope because the German Foundation for Monument Protection has now pledged 550,000 euros for reconstruction. This reports Northern Courier.

The fire brigade fought in vain until late afternoon against the flames, which had already engulfed the entire building when they arrived. A total of seven fire departments were on site, but fortunately no one was injured. The police assume arson and are currently looking for witnesses who can provide information about the cause of the fire. The material damage is estimated at around one million euros, while the community of Dassow remains optimistic in the hope of preserving the castle, as Mayor Sascha Kuhfuß explains NDR.

Important renovation measures

Emergency security measures are of particular importance as part of reconstruction. For example, the foundation's money will be used to build an emergency roof to protect the building from further weather influences and vandalism. The foundation board member Steffen Skudelny emphasizes the need for support from citizens and visitors to the castle. An engineering firm was commissioned to make the ruins winter-proof by autumn and to determine the exact damage.

Johannstorf Castle was built between 1740 and 1743 and is considered a masterpiece of the Baroque in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. It is one of the last remaining moated castles in the region and served as a filming location for the award-winning film “The White Ribbon” by Michael Haneke in 2008. In recent decades, however, the property has been in dire need of renovation and has been empty for a long time. The owner at the time was unable to meet the community's expectations, which led to lengthy legal disputes. The castle is currently owned by the municipality again.

A sign of hope

Despite the sad circumstances surrounding the fire and the castle's long history, there are bright spots. The appeal for donations has already started to collect additional funds for reconstruction. “Every contribution counts,” Skudelny calls on the public to get involved in preserving this unique cultural asset. The more people learn about the importance and beauty of this historical jewel, the greater the likelihood that it will soon be restored to its former glory so that future generations can also admire the splendor of the castle. Information and options for support can be found on the website German Monument Protection Foundation.