Perched gracefully above the village of Mainberg in the municipality of Schonungen, Bavaria, this distinguished castle is surrounded by woodland and vineyards, offering a tranquil rural retreat within close proximity to Schweinfurt. Just three kilometres from the city boundary, the property benefits from excellent transport links including a direct bus service and quick motorway access, combining idyllic seclusion with modern convenience.
Once the residence of the influential Sachs industrial family, Mainberg Castle underwent extensive alterations in the late Romantic style under their ownership. These transformations continue to define the castle’s elegant and noble interiors, showcasing superb craftsmanship and period detail.
This magnificent estate is a rare architectural gem, notable for its bespoke interior designs conceived by Munich’s esteemed architect Franz Rank at the request of then-owner Ernst Sachs. Each room bears a unique character, offering a captivating glimpse into early 20th-century aristocratic taste.
In recent years, the castle has served multiple purposes-from hosting fine dining events and celebrations to private residency-reflecting its versatility and grandeur.
Rich Heritage and Cultural Importance
Mainberg Castle’s storied past spans from the High Middle Ages through to the modern era, setting it apart as one of Franconia’s most historically significant noble seats. Documented as early as 1245, its iconic triple stepped gables date from medieval times. Ownership passed from the Counts of Henneberg (1305–1542) through various noble families before being acquired by Ernst Sachs in 1915. Later, his son Willy Sachs maintained stewardship until 1954; the famed Gunther Sachs was born here. Subsequent custodians include Wilhelm Heger and the City of Schweinfurt, before private ownership resumed in 1983 under Gerhard Eichhorn.
The castle has attracted the admiration of numerous celebrated artists—from Matthäus Merian and Ludwig Richter to Hans Thoma—who immortalised its splendour through paintings and sketches. Literary figure Ludwig Bechstein described it as a “beautiful marvel of a castle.”
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Event Facilities and Reception Areas
Offering approximately 1,628 square metres of space suitable for hospitality, corporate functions or exhibitions, the castle boasts a variety of impressive rooms spread over multiple floors:
Ground Floor:
Fountain Room: 150.4 m²
Cold Storage: 40.7 m²
Storage: 55.0 m²
Basement:
Vaulted Cellars: 124 m² and 205 m²
First Floor:
Knights’ Hall: 177.4 m²
Chapel with Choir: 45.3 m²
Henneberg Room: 69.2 m²
Lucretia Room: 35.0 m²
Second Floor:
Grand Knights’ Hall with Organ: 248.6 m²
Foyer: 73.0 m²
Armoury: 120 m²
Red Salon with Gallery: 76 m²
Ancestral Room: 31.4 m²
Ladies’ Salon: 30.5 m²
Princes’ Room: 47.8 m²
Hunting Room: 41.0 m²
Gentlemen’s Room: 42.3 m²
Loggia: 15.7 m²
Living Quarters
First Floor: An expansive apartment of over 400 square metres featuring a terrace and panoramic views across the Main River.
Second Floor: A second apartment around 125 square metres with two balconies, currently requiring renovation.
Outer Bailey
The outer bailey offers approximately 500 square metres of potential living or commercial space but will require considerable refurbishment.
Mainberg Castle represents a truly exceptional opportunity to acquire a residence steeped in history and architectural grandeur, perfectly suited for those seeking a prestigious family home, an exclusive venue, or a distinguished cultural property in Bavaria.
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