Conducting a series of interviews with various residents from Spantekov for our project.
In the heart of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, the picturesque Wasserburg in Spantekow stands as a testament to history and a beacon for community engagement. Built around 1790, with its distinctive triangular gable added in 1816, this water castle has been a significant part of the region's heritage for centuries [1].
Today, the Wasserburg is more than just a historical monument. Owned and managed by the von Harnier family, it serves as a vacation home and a platform for fostering dialogue and community interaction. The family hosts an ongoing event called the "open dialogue," inviting people from diverse backgrounds to come together and discuss various social and cultural topics [1].
Everyone with any connection to the castle is encouraged to participate - former residents, children who played there, neighbours, employees, or witnesses from the area. The discussions aim to listen to stories, remember the past, and cast a living glance at the history of the castle. Camping in the castle courtyard is available upon request [1].
The earnings from the rental of the Wasserburg will be used for the renovation of the fortress from the 13th century. The stay within its historic walls is described as "exclusive, but without luxury and frills." The castle is listed on Airbnb as "Vacation like in the Middle Ages" [1].
The Wasserburg in Spantekow is hosting a discussion round on September 14th at 3 pm, as part of the Day of Open Heritage. The title of the discussion round is "What connects you to Burg Spantekow? Tell us about it...". Participation in the discussion round is free, but registration is required in advance at [email protected] [1].
The castle has a unique history, serving as a noble residence, a refugee shelter after the war, and a retirement home during the DDR era. The Wasserburg in Spantekow is now available as a vacation home for rental, offering two bedrooms, a living kitchen, bathroom, living room, and an extra dining room in hunting style [1].
This integration of heritage preservation, private leisure use, and community dialogue sets the Wasserburg in Spantekow apart in its current status, making it a unique destination for those seeking a blend of history, culture, and community engagement.
Engaging with the community and preserving the castle's rich history, the Wasserburg in Spantekow offers a unique blend of outdoor-living and home-and-garden experiences. Camping in the courtyard and vacationing like in the Middle Ages are among the opportunities, while participation in community discussions and the "open dialogue" events foster a sense of shared lifestyle.
