April 5, 2025
On October 20, 2006, the severely neglected Castle Rued went under the hammer. After just a few rounds of bidding, the Aargau high-tech company Erowa AG was awarded the contract for 2.72 million CHF. This not only ensured the immediate rescue of the historical monument but also initiated a comprehensive restoration that was successfully completed in 2018.
" The canton could never preserve all castles, dedicated entrepreneurs like Erowa are a blessing for monument conservation."
Date | Event |
---|---|
1347 | First documented mention of a Castle Rued. |
1775 | Great fire destroys the medieval complex. |
1792 - 1796 | Reconstruction as an early classical country castle by Carl Friedrich von May. |
1989 | Sale to investor H. A. Strittmatter, lack of maintenance funds leads to decay. |
20.10.2006 | Forced auction: Erowa AG acquires the castle for 2.72 million CHF. |
2010 - 2014 | Planning & monument conservation concepts, building permit granted. |
2014 - 2018 | Complete renovation including basement construction, removal of inappropriate modifications, and reintegration of historical elements. |
April 2018 | Reopening as a public seminar and meeting center with a village festival. |
Can a highest bidder simply demolish a protected castle?
No. Protection status obliges its preservation, demolition permits are practically excluded.
Are there funding aids?
Yes. In addition to cantonal contributions, the federal government, lottery funds, and foundations provide interest-free loans or non-repayable grants.
Can the castle be used as a private residence?
Generally yes, as long as public interests (access, appearance) are preserved and uses are compatible with the requirements.
The forced auction of Castle Rued is a prime example of how a legally regulated process can save dilapidated cultural goods and lead them to a sustainable use. Thanks to clear SchKG procedures, committed ownership, and constructive monument conservation, a troubled asset has been transformed into a vibrant seminar and meeting center, benefiting the region, culture, and economy alike.