A particular gem is the Great Wendelstein, an artistically designed stair tower in front of the Johann-Friedrich-Bau. Its cantilevered steps wind majestically upwards without any inner pillars to support them. Decorated with precious sandstone ornaments, it is considered a true masterpiece of architecture!
Between 1533 and 1536, master builder Conrad Krebs had this prestigious castle wing built, which housed the magnificent Giant's Hall and other ceremonial rooms. Lucas Cranach the Elder and his workshop were instrumental in designing the interior. The magnificent portal on the second floor tells of the glorious past with its decorations: it shows a bust of Frederick the Wise, medallions of Elector Johann Friedrich and his wife as well as small portraits of Martin Luther and Philipp Melanchthon. This was once the entrance to the great banqueting hall. Today, administrative offices are located behind the magnificent façade, which has been preserved through renovations over the last few centuries.
The panoramic view from the Wendelstein offers fascinating views: To the left is the late Gothic Albrechtsbau with its exhibitions and ticket office, straight ahead the youngest wing of the castle, which was only built at the beginning of the 17th century, and to the right the wing on the Elbe side with the Torgau Castle Chapel and other exhibitions.
A particularly artistic eye-catcher is the Beautiful Oriel, decorated with the medallions of Judith and Lucretia. It is located right next to the portal of the castle chapel and once belonged to the electoral apartments. Today, these are on display as part of the permanent exhibition “Standfest. Bibelfest. Trinkfest.”.
