Schloss Demerthin

In the quiet village of Demerthin, a small Renaissance manor has stood almost untouched since 1604. Most country houses in Brandenburg were rebuilt and modernized over the centuries, but Schloss Demerthin has kept its original design. This compact, two-storey building with a soaring central tower has many unique and photogenic features, like its intricate doorway. Sitting off-centre into the tower the entrance is intricately carved with sculpted figures and detailed ornaments. The courtyard gives you lots of room to step back and capture the whole tower and gables together in one frame. Soft, low light suits the pale walls, and an overcast sky keeps the carved stone even rather than harsh. Getting here is a peaceful country drive into rural northwest Brandenburg, then a short walk along the village street where you can photograph the exterior freely. The building is a protected monument with a small museum slowly taking shape inside, so access to the interior isn't more about luck than timing until the museum portion is completed. (Gumtow, Brandenburg, Germany)