SCHLOSS BLÜHNBACH
Nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of Austria, Schloss Blühnbach stands as a captivating testament to Austria’s rich heritage, where history comes alive in every nook and cranny. With its awe-inspiring architecture, breathtaking surroundings, and intriguing legends, the castle seamlessly blends the past with the present, and offers a journey through time, leaving those that visit enchanted and longing to return.
Dating back to the medieval era, Schloss Blühnbach has witnessed centuries of history unfold within its sturdy walls. The architecture is a masterpiece in itself. Today it stands proudly as a living testament to the enduring spirit of preservation and continues to thrive as more than just a historical landmark.
Schloss Blühnbach was acquired by Frederick R. Koch in 1987, and since 2020, after his passing, the ownership of the Schloss transferred to the Frederick R. Koch Foundation of Austria, a non-profit deeply committed to promoting increased public awareness of the preservation and significance of this historic Austrian monument. The Foundation is fervently dedicated to supporting the protection, maintenance and educational use of the Schloss so that it may foster an environment where young artists and art historians alike can grow and thrive in their respective fields.
While Schloss Blühnbach is a cherished site of historical significance, the Foundation itself is not an organisation that accepts unsolicited grant requests. Our primary mission is to preserve the castle’s heritage and provide a platform for cultural enrichment, for which our resources and efforts are dedicated.
OUR FOUNDER
Frederick R. Koch was a visionary philanthropist whose lifelong dedication to the arts and humanities continues to inspire and uplift. Born in Wichita, Kansas, in 1933, Mr. Koch pursued a path marked by academic excellence and a profound passion for culture. After earning degrees in English literature and drama from Harvard and Yale, he embarked on a journey that would shape the cultural landscape.
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Known as the "collector’s collector," Mr. Koch’s discerning eye led to the preservation of countless artistic treasures, from rare manuscripts to architectural masterpieces. His acquisitions, including Schloss Blühnbach, reflected his unwavering commitment to safeguarding history and fostering creativity.
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Beyond his role as a collector, Mr. Koch championed emerging artists, performers, and scholars. His philanthropy extended to organisations worldwide, supporting the performing arts, historic preservation, and education. Through the Frederick R. Koch Foundation, he cultivated opportunities for creativity to flourish and for cultural heritage to endure.
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Frederick R. Koch’s legacy lives on in the halls of Schloss Blühnbach and beyond, where his vision continues to inspire future generations to celebrate art, history, and humanity.
LEADERSHIP TODAY
CRISPIN VAUGHAN
Chairman​
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BETTINA FISCHER
Vice Chairman
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BILLIE JORDAN
Board Member
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PETER TRINKL
Estate Manager
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KRISTEN LINFANTE
Director, Development, Programs & Partnerships
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