At first glance, Blutenburg Castle looks like something out of a fairy tale: white walls, medieval towers, and an idyllic moat. But behind this romantic backdrop lies a story that is more reminiscent of a historical crime case. Nearly 600 years ago, Duke Albrecht III and Agnes Bernauer lived here; their love caused a scandal at the Bavarian court and ultimately ended in a gruesome murder.
A forbidden love that a duke would not accept
Around 1428, the Bavarian heir to the throne, Albrecht III, met Agnes Bernauer, who is believed to have come from a humble background. Despite their different social standings, the two fell in love and may even have married in secret. For a time, they lived together at Blutenburg Castle, which Albrecht had expanded into a ducal country estate.
But his father, Duke Ernst, saw the relationship as a threat to the dynastic line of succession. On October 12, 1435, he had Agnes arrested in Straubing and sentenced to death on charges including witchcraft and high treason. She was drowned in the Danube. Albrecht was absent during the execution.
13 November 2026 18:00 + more dates
Sudetendeutsches Haus
What remains today of this tragic story
The story of Agnes Bernauer continues to fascinate historians and artists to this day. Blutenburg Castle, too, still serves as a reminder of its former residents. In particular, the late-medieval tower house where the couple lived together has been preserved.
Today, the former moated castle houses the International Youth Library. With its late-Gothic castle chapel, historic towers, and idyllic green spaces, it is also an interesting destination for a day trip.
For everyone who loves dark stories
Those who can’t get enough of historical mysteries and spine-chilling tales will also find the perfect evening experience in Munich. At the Edgar Allan Poe Speakeasy, four famous stories by the American author come to life through live drama and a mysterious theatrical setting. For anyone who enjoys being swept away into the darker sides of literature while sipping thematically inspired cocktails.
Edgar Allan Poe Speakeasy Munich
13 November 2026 18:00 + more dates
Sudetendeutsches Haus
Here’s how to plan your visit
Blutenburg Castle is located at Seldweg 15 in Munich-Obermenzing and is easily accessible by public transportation. Take the S-Bahn to Pasing and then transfer to bus 56 to the “Schloss Blutenburg” stop. Alternatively, a roughly 25-minute walk along the Würm River will take you to the castle. The exhibitions at the International Youth Library are generally open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on weekends from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
If this tragic love story has left you craving more dark tales, you can round out the day at the Edgar Allan Poe Speakeasy. The live show, which lasts about 75 to 80 minutes, takes place at the Sudetendeutschen Haus, Hochstraße 8, just a few minutes’ walk from the Rosenheimer Platz S-Bahn station. The event is for ages 18 and up; doors open 30 minutes before the show begins. The show does not take place at the castle and requires a separate ticket.
