Schloss Wasserhof

Schloss Wasserhof is a privately owned building in Gneixendorf, a village near Krems an der Donau in Lower Austria. The estate first appears in records from 1141, when Otto von Machland left it to Baumgartenberg Abbey. The current structure dates from about 1550. Nikolaus Johann van Beethoven, Ludwig van Beethoven’s brother, bought the property in 1819. In autumn 1826, Ludwig visited and stayed there while composing music. The house holds a quiet place in musical history. The visit is worthwhile for anyone interested in Beethoven’s late works. During his stay, the composer finished the finale to his String Quartet Op. 130. This was a replacement for the Große Fuge, suggested by his publisher. He completed the manuscript on 22 November 1826 before leaving soon after. The estate remains tied to this brief but productive period. Visitors find a restored building set in a peaceful rural setting. The present owner, architect Ernst Linsberger, has carefully renovated the house in recent years. The surroundings include the village of Gneixendorf and nearby Krems an der Donau. The estate’s long history and its connection to Beethoven give it quiet significance.