If you ever hear the name “Lichtenstein Castle”, the first image that probably pops into your mind is a fairytale-esque, palatial structure located in the far reaches of Europe.
You wouldn’t be far wrong. In this particular case, though, this castle is closer to home than you realise. Specifically, it is situated in the seaside suburb of Hout Bay in Cape Town.
Much like the statue of the bronze leopard, this local landmark overlooks the turquoise waters of the bay, emanating an air of eerie elegance combined with mediaeval majesty.
So, how did Lichtenstein Castle come to be? And is there any truth to the rumours that it may be haunted? Today, we answer these questions:
ART IMITATES LIFE
They say imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. For Reynier Fritz, a German-born Capetonian businessman, building Lichtenstein Castle on Hout Bay’s Karbonkelberg peak was a way to both honour his heritage and enjoy stately living.
Fritz is said to have journeyed to his homeland of southern Germany sometime in the 1980s. There, he visited Schloss Lichtenstein, a Gothic Revival castle situated on a cliff in the Swabian Jura mountain range.
Inspired by this mediaeval structure, Fritz returned to South Africa and began construction on a replica castle on Karbonkelberg in 1986.
Twelve years later, Lichtenstein Castle was completed. Built with clay bricks and offering stunning panoramic views of Hout Bay, the six-storey castle looks like something out of a romance novel or a fantasy film. The nearby waterfall adds to the illusion, albeit one that lessens with the inclusion of a swimming pool and a helipad.
Its interior is equally luxurious, from its vaulted ceilings to intricate carved beams. It features four bedrooms, several en-suite bathrooms, a banquet hall, a large ballroom and other eye-catching chambers. Furnishings include chandeliers, stained-glass windows, decadent banquet tables, and numerous flags and crests.
Fritz intended to make this castle his private estate. Consequently, access to the 8.6-hectare property is limited to only one mountain road or by helicopter transport. As if to add to this air of solitude, statues of dragons, lions and gargoyles stand guard in and around the castle.
LICHTENSTEIN CASTLE CHANGES HANDS
Shortly after his family moved in, Fritz converted Lichtenstein Castle into a guesthouse. Not long afterwards, though, he passed away.
Details regarding Fritz’s death differ, but it’s generally accepted that he died after suffering a heart attack. However, rumours persist that he met his untimely end after falling down a flight of stairs at the castle.
In 2012, Fritz’s widow, Christine, sold Lichtenstein Castle to a Russian businessman whose name has yet to be revealed to the public. Said businessman purchased the replica castle for R23 million (a pittance compared to DJ Black Coffee’s recent property purchase, but still a great deal of money).
Today, the castle has become a popular venue for weddings, conferences and private events. Filmmakers and photographers also like to use the castle’s interiors and exteriors as backdrops for their media projects.
IS LICHTENSTEIN CASTLE HAUNTED?
It seems like every castle has its ghosts in the same vein that every closet has its skeletons. Lichtenstein Castle is apparently no different.
In Hout Bay and beyond, many folks speculate that the castle is haunted. On social media, especially, the rumour mill posits that Fritz’s spirit roams the castle.
In what way, shape or form his alleged hauntings take place is unclear. However, for sensitive souls or paranormal enthusiasts, it would be easy to interpret a loud creak or a far-off voice echoing inside the grand structure as an indication of a ghost’s presence.
For now, it’s safe to say that Lichtenstein Castle doesn’t play host to any restless ghosts, ghouls or spirits.
HOUT BAY’S OWN LEGEND
For most Hout Bay residents and travellers, Lichtenstein Castle inspires awe and curiosity. As for those harbouring less romantic notions, it’s a bit of an eyesore.
No matter how you look at it, the castle is a unique piece of architecture. It conjures up images of fairy tales, faraway kingdoms and fantastical settings that, even as adults, appeal to our childlike sense of wonder.
All in all, Lichtenstein Castle has become something of a legend, if not one that’s in the making.
