The AfD’s Ambitious Plan: A "Patriotic Centre" in a Haunted Nazi Castle

In a move that has sparked both intrigue and controversy, Germany’s populist Right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party is pursuing the acquisition of a dilapidated castle with a dark history. The Sanatorium Schwarzeck, once a training academy for the Luftwaffe during World War II, is being eyed by Franz Schmid, a senior member of the AfD’s regional Thuringia branch. Schmid’s vision is to transform this haunted relic into a "patriotic centre," complete with a hotel and event space, aimed at fostering a sense of national pride among party supporters.

A Troubled History

The Sanatorium Schwarzeck, located in Thuringia, has a storied past that intertwines with Germany’s tumultuous history. Originally established as a health retreat, it was commandeered during the Second World War by Hermann Göring, Hitler’s air chief, to serve as a training facility for Luftwaffe recruits. After the war, the site was repurposed by Communist officials in East Germany into a training camp, and later, it operated as a hotel. However, the building has since fallen into disrepair, with property experts estimating its value at a mere €5,000 (£4,200) due to years of neglect and legal disputes.

Adding to its allure, the castle is rumored to be haunted, attracting treasure hunters and curious visitors who have ransacked the site in search of valuables left behind by Göring and his associates. This blend of history and mystery makes Schwarzeck a compelling choice for Schmid’s ambitious project.

The Vision for a "Patriotic Centre"

Franz Schmid, who serves as an MP in the Thuringia state parliament and treasurer of the AfD’s youth group, has expressed a strong desire to create a dedicated space for the party and its supporters. He stated, "We are always struggling with a space problem and cannot get any rooms. That is why I would like to make the Schwarzeck available to the AfD and the [youth group] Young Alternative." His proposal includes transforming the castle into a venue for events, gatherings, and accommodations, thereby solidifying the AfD’s presence in the region.

Schmid’s pursuit of the Schwarzeck follows a previous failed attempt to acquire Mattsies Castle in southern Germany, highlighting the party’s ongoing struggle to find a suitable property for its activities. The provisional deal for the Sanatorium Schwarzeck represents a significant step forward in this endeavor.

Controversy and Criticism

The AfD’s plans for the Sanatorium Schwarzeck are not without controversy. The party has faced significant backlash in recent years, particularly after members were reported to have attended meetings with individuals linked to neo-Nazi groups. In May, Maximilian Krah, the party’s leading candidate for the European elections, was dismissed from his campaign role after making controversial remarks about Nazi SS members, stating that they were "not all criminals." Such incidents have fueled criticism of the AfD and raised concerns about its ideological leanings.

Despite these controversies, the AfD has made significant electoral gains, particularly in Thuringia, where it recently secured over a third of the votes in the state elections. While this result did not grant the party a majority, it positioned the AfD as the largest party in the region, underscoring its growing influence in German politics.

The Future of Schwarzeck

As the AfD moves forward with its plans for the Sanatorium Schwarzeck, the implications of such a project will likely reverberate throughout German society. The idea of transforming a site with Nazi ties into a "patriotic centre" raises questions about the party’s intentions and the potential normalization of its controversial views. Critics argue that such a move could further entrench far-right ideologies in Germany, while supporters may see it as a legitimate expression of national pride.

In conclusion, the AfD’s bid for the Sanatorium Schwarzeck is emblematic of the party’s broader ambitions and the complexities of contemporary German politics. As the situation unfolds, it will be crucial to monitor the reactions from both supporters and detractors, as well as the potential impact on the party’s standing in the political landscape. The haunted castle may soon become a focal point in the ongoing debate over nationalism, history, and identity in Germany.