Experience the mysterious life of the gold maker from Klettenberg!

Experience the mysterious life of the gold maker from Klettenberg!

Johann Hektor von Klettenberg: From imposter to legend

In Brandenburg, everything currently revolves around a colorful personality from the past: Johann Hektor von Klettenberg. The self-proclaimed goldmaker, who lived in the 18th century, duped the Saxon Elector August the Strong. The man who was born in Frankfurt am Main in 1684 and met his end at Königstein Fortress on March 1, 1720, is now being honored with a special adventure tour in the Senftenberg Castle and Fortress Museum. Because Klettenberg's life is so adventurous that you can't leave it undiscovered.

Klettenberg spent time in Senftenberg with his second wife. This city was not only a place of his work, but also the scene of his frauds. Known for claiming to be able to produce gold, he pulled off various con acts over the course of his life, which ultimately led him to the Saxon court. But not everything went according to plan. At one point his debts to the king amounted to an impressive 24,000 thalers, without him fulfilling his promises. Deceived and disappointed, he finally found himself in the dungeon walls of Hohnstein, which marked the end of his heyday.

Adventure tours in the museum

On July 9th and August 6th, 2025, history buffs will get their money's worth on the adventure tour in the Senftenberg Castle and Fortress Museum. Monika Auer takes on the role of Madame Johanne Eleonore Sophie von Klettenberg. The tour offers an exciting look at life in Klettenberg, city life in the 18th century and the fortress during the time of August the Strong. A true journey through time that should not be missed!

The tour begins at 4 p.m. and costs 7 euros for adults, just 5.50 euros for reduced tickets and just 3 euros for children. But be careful: the number of participants is limited, so early registration is advisable. This can be done directly at the museum box office, by email museum@osl-online.de or by phone at 03573-870 2400.

Kletteneberg's dazzling history

Johann Hektor von Klettenberg was a baron and came from a respected Frankfurt family. After a fatal duel he had to leave Frankfurt in 1707. He began his journey as an impostor when he posed as Baron von Wildeck at the court of Saxe-Weimar, even though he never had that title. His promise to produce gold eventually landed him in the court of August the Strong, where he collected large sums of money without delivering results. After his exposure, he was arrested and made two attempts to escape before he finally met his life's end in 1720: beheading. At the current place of execution, the Königsnase, a memorial stone commemorates him.

The story of Johann Hektor von Klettenberg shows how far people will go for fame and fortune and how they can drive themselves into a corner in the process. Therefore, we should not miss the opportunity to learn more about this fascinating character and his time. The KulturKurier and Wikipedia offer interesting insights into his eventful life.