Having first been mentioned in the 12th century, Anholt Moated Castle is one of the few privately owned castles in North Rhine-Westphalia. It has evolved to become one of the region's largest museums.

Anholt Moated Castle in Münsterland was transformed from a fortified castle into a baroque stately residence with the air of a palace in around 1700. And now, thanks to Prince Nikolaus of Salm-Salm, the residence is home to a museum holding extensive private collections. For example, the collection of pictures is the largest historical collection owned privately in the region. It consists of more than 700 paintings, including masterpieces painted by Dutch, Flemish and German greats such as Rembrandt, Jan Brueghel the Elder and Holbein.

It is believed that the current configuration with three floors came about in the middle of the 17th century. The splendour of that period is reflected in the Great Hall, Marble Room, Banqueting Hall and Green Hall. Visitors can also gain detailed insights into the era and culture of the time through the library, porcelain and coin collection, court kitchen, dining hall and collection of curiosities. The 'Fat Tower', armoury and dungeon are further major attractions making up the museum. The whole complex is perfectly complemented by a vast park area and several baroque gardens.

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