Sunday, May 13 ... Horst Castle

Hanne and Dietmar too us to Horst Castle for a renaissance festival.  Horst is a Germanic word meaning "eagle's nest".

The castle was built between 1555 and 1573 as a seat for the nobleman Rütger von der Horst.  Despite  best efforts, the building gradually fell into dis-repair.   To mark the occasion of the 700th anniversary of the charter conferring Horst township status the castle has undergone restoration.
Standing in front of Horst Castle ... Hanne, Mom, Diermar, Andi, and Jeff.

The rear of the building gives you a peek at the original structure.

We were there to see the renaissance festival.  I had to compliment Hanne.   You see, I have been trying to get Jeff to attend a festival like this for about 20 years ... and Hanne got him here in a mere three days.  Hanne is influential, to say the least!

First up, was the horsemanship display.  The riders, dressed in full regalia, dazzled us with their riding and jousting skills.

At the conclusion of the horsemanship, we walked through the market place.  There was lots to see.  We encountered this guy carrying his hawk. 

Many of the people in attendance were in costume.  Mom gravitated to the guy in the kilt ....

And the full suit of armor.

The owl was truly fascinating.  They way he turned his head and his piercing eyes.



This is the band that was accompanying the dance troupe. 

And what's the best way to end the day ... we had some honey beer.  Prost !