Château de Pourtalès: A Historical Gem, Former Schiller International University Campus, and Ongoing Hub of Education and Art

Nestled on the outskirts of Strasbourg, the Château de Pourtalès is a majestic estate steeped in history, charm, and legend. From hosting European aristocracy to serving as an academic haven, this former Schiller International University campus has always been a hub for intellectual and cultural exchange. Now owned by the direct descendants of Schiller’s founder, Harald and Uli Leibrecht, who carry on its educational legacy through the Cepa Foundation, the château continues to inspire new generations of learners and creators. On November 3rd, the estate will celebrate its unique place in history with an exciting art exhibition featuring works by Schiller International University alumni who once studied Fine Arts within its historic walls.

A Rich Historical Legacy

The story of Château de Pourtalès begins in the 18th century. It was built around 1750 as a manor house by Joseph Guérault. In 1802, Baron Paul-Athanase Renouard de Bussierre, who was from a wealthy industrial family from Strasbourg, bought the house and expanded the manor into a gracious Château. Over time, it grew into a cultural epicenter for European elites, hosting prominent intellectuals, artists, and political figures. The château’s blend of neo-classical and neo-gothic architecture and its lush English gardens reflect the tastes of its past residents, making it a stunning representation of Alsace's aristocratic history.

As with many historical estates, Château de Pourtalès has its share of legends, including tales of Melanie de Pourtalès, one of the former owners. According to local lore, and as many Schiller alumni may recall, Melanie's spirit is said to roam the halls of the château, adding an air of mystery to the already enchanting estate. While few have encountered the ghost, the story continues to intrigue both visitors and those with a deep connection to the château.

Schiller International University: An Educational Legacy

In the latter half of the 20th century, the château embarked on a new chapter when it became a campus for Schiller International University. The Strasbourg campus was an ideal location for students seeking education in international relations, diplomacy, global business, given its proximity to major European institutions like the European Parliament and Council of Europe, and Fine Arts. The château's tranquil surroundings, steeped in history, provided a perfect backdrop for fostering global perspectives and intercultural dialogue, while the beauty and spirituality of the area attracted students who were interested in arts.

From the 1970s to the early 2000s, students from across the world called Château de Pourtalès home. Many alumni fondly recall their time spent studying within its historic walls, where academic pursuits were complemented by the château's serene ambiance. Today, the memories of that time live on in the minds of Schiller alumni, and the upcoming art exhibition on November 3rd will showcase their creative expressions, a testament to the inspiration they drew from this remarkable setting.

Continuing the Legacy: The Leibrecht Family and Cepa Foundation

Although Schiller International University no longer operates a campus at Château de Pourtalès, its educational legacy continues through the dedication of Harald and Uli Leibrecht, the current owners. Harald is the son of Schiller’s founder, Dr. Walter Leibrecht, and Uli is a proud Schiller alumna, both of whom remain deeply connected to the university’s mission of fostering global education and cultural exchange. Their passion for learning and cultural exchange led them to establish the Cepa Foundation, an organization dedicated to fostering international education and cross-cultural understanding. Through the foundation, the château continues to serve as a space for conferences, seminars, and cultural events, ensuring that its tradition as a center of learning and creativity thrives.

The Château Today: A Home for Art and Culture

Château de Pourtalès continues to be a beacon for art and culture. On November 3rd, the château will host an art exhibition featuring works from Schiller International University alumni who once studied on the very grounds of this historic estate. The exhibition will showcase a variety of artistic styles and mediums, reflecting the diverse experiences and backgrounds of the students who passed through the château's doors.

This event is not only a celebration of art but also a reunion of sorts, bringing together alumni whose academic and creative journeys were shaped by their time at Château de Pourtalès. The exhibition promises to be a unique fusion of history, education, and creativity, further enriching the château’s already vibrant legacy.

Château de Pourtalès has long been a place where history, education, and culture converge. From its origins as an aristocratic estate to its role as a Schiller International University campus, and now as a center for international education through the Cepa Foundation, the château continues to inspire those who visit and study there. The upcoming art exhibition on November 3rd is a testament to the château's enduring influence, showcasing how its historical and educational legacy lives on through the creativity of its former students.

For Schiller alumni, the château represents not just a chapter in their academic journey, but a lasting source of inspiration—one that, much like the legend of Melanie’s ghost, continues to linger in the minds of all who experience its beauty and history.