Erbdrostenhof

Historic Building in Münster

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Dietmar Rabich

Nestled in the heart of Münster’s Old Town, the Erbdrostenhof is an exquisite late Baroque palace, designed by master architect Johann Conrad Schlaun and constructed between 1753 and 1757 for Adolf Heidenreich Freiherr Droste zu Vischering, the Erbdrost of Münster. Built on a compact plot, Schlaun showcased extraordinary design skill, creating a grand, curved façade in luminous Billerbeck sandstone, flanked by warm red clinker‑brick wings. The palace stands proudly along Salzstraße’s so-called “Baroque Island,” forming a striking centerpiece among the city’s historic architecture.

The interior of Erbdrostenhof was originally lavishly decorated, featuring frescoes by Nikolaus Loder and intricate sculptural work by Johann Christoph Manskirch. Although the palace suffered heavy damage during World War II air raids, it was carefully reconstructed between 1953 and 1970. Restoration efforts included the meticulous revival of the frescoes led by Paul Reckendorfer in the 1960s, reinstating the palace’s historic elegance, particularly in its remarkable Baroque ballroom, which remains a highlight of the building.

Today, the Erbdrostenhof serves as a vibrant cultural hub. Owned by the Landschaftsverband Westfalen‑Lippe (LWL), it houses offices for several cultural organizations, including the Museum Office of Westphalia, the Historical and Literature Commissions, and the Droste Research Centre. Its Baroque festival hall also hosts the renowned annual Erbdrostenhof Concerts, featuring historic keyboard instruments such as a 1640 Ruckers harpsichord—one of the most important preserved instruments in the world.

Strategically situated opposite Münster’s City Museum, Erbdrostenhof is an ideal stop on a walking tour of the Old Town. Visitors strolling along Salzstraße can admire nearby landmarks, including the Clemens Church (Clemenskirche) and the Dominican Church (Dominikanerkirche), both also designed by Schlaun. While public access inside is generally limited to special events in the banquet hall, the palace’s exterior alone demonstrates Schlaun’s mastery and grandeur.

The Erbdrostenhof’s blend of architectural elegance, historical significance, and ongoing cultural relevance makes it a must-see for visitors. Its curving façade, detailed Baroque design, and central location offer both a visual delight and a window into Münster’s rich history. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, history lover, or curious traveler, the palace remains one of the city’s most impressive landmarks.

The Erbdrostenhof appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Münster!

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