Beschreibung
The Arenenberg estate and the neighboring Lilienberg entrepreneur forum are located less than ten kilometers downstream from Constance and Kreuzlingen, in the Swiss canton of Thurgau. Both sites—closely linked to one another—are distinguished by their centuries-old history and breathtaking views. From this vantage point, one can enjoy a unique perspective of the Thurgau „Seerücken“ ridge, Reichenau Island, the Bodanrück peninsula, the volcanic Hegau region, and Lake Constance itself. Together, they form the heart of an impressive horticultural landscape—known as the „Côte Napoléon“ (Napoleonic Coast)—which encompasses numerous other country estates, including the island of Mainau.
The remarkable Arenenberg complex, with its richly structured landscape park, dates back to the early 19th century, though its origins can be traced as far back as late antiquity. Napoleon III (1808–1873), the last French emperor, grew up here, leaving behind a precious legacy for the Lake Constance region—a legacy that has been meticulously researched and restored to its original state in recent years. It is not without reason that the estate is considered „the most beautiful château on Lake Constance.“
Lilienberg is striking for its distinguished contemporary architecture, its grand trees—some over 200 years old—and its immaculately maintained gardens. It serves as a modern counterpart to Arenenberg, beautifully bridging the past and present of landscape design in the western Lake Constance region.
This park and garden guide offers, for the first time, a comprehensive overview of both sites. It provides an expert account of their history and interconnections, while exploring in depth their multifaceted ties to the surrounding region and to broader European history. Many significant landscape designers left their mark here—for instance, Louis-Martin Berthault, who, among other projects, designed the gardens at Malmaison in France, or Charles de Moreau, who was active primarily in and around Vienna. Most notable, however, is Hermann von Pückler-Muskau (1785–1871)—celebrated as the „Green Prince“ and a close friend of Napoleon III—with whom he created numerous gardens and parks in Paris.
The Author
Dominik Gügel is a historian and the director of the Napoleon Museum Arenenberg. He studied history, political science, art history, and medieval archaeology, and is recognized as an expert on the Napoleonic era and the history of gardens. Under his leadership, the Napoleon Museum Arenenberg has evolved into an internationally acclaimed research and exhibition center, as well as a garden paradise.
Dominik Gügel has published numerous works on 19th- and 20th-century European history and is dedicated to presenting historical topics to a broad audience in a contemporary, engaging manner. The Lake Constance region—once a place of exile for the Bonaparte family—is the focal point of his academic and museum-related work. Furthermore, he serves as the executive president of the association „Bodenseegärten“ (Lake Constance Gardens), is a board member of the European Garden Association, and sits on the board of the Napoleon III Foundation.
→ The park and garden guide is also available in German and French editions.
