When the Angels sing
First documented in 1189, this historic manor house near Düsseldorf is now home to Sabine and Lars and their two sons.
Its eventful history spans more than 800 years, including a long chapter as a grain distillery from 1789 until the 1960s.
The couple, both project managers, bought the impressive property in 2020 and have since restored it with great dedication, much of the work carried out by themselves
and with the support of local craftsmen.
The interiors are filled with pieces they have collected over many years, most of them discovered at flea markets in Belgium, France and England.
In the weeks leading up to Christmas, the house takes on a particularly festive atmosphere.
Almost every room is decorated with its own Christmas tree, while countless candles, lit by Sabine, cast a warm and celebratory glow throughout the house.
After many weeks of preparation and baking, the Advent season reaches its highlight on 13 December with the Scandinavian celebration of Sankta Lucia,
when friends and neighbours are invited to the house.
At the beginning of the celebration, Lucia descends the grand staircase wearing a crown of candles, followed by the Lucia maidens, dressed in white and carrying candles.
Together they sing the Swedish Sankta Lucia carol and traditional international Christmas carols. This marks the true beginning of the festive season.
Photography: André Reuter
Styling: Miriam Hannemann
Number of images: 78
Season: Christmas
Country of origin: Germany
English text available on request
German Text available on request
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