Shanghai's New Landmark of Musical Art | Music Castle (1572)

| Music Castle (1572). Located at No. 1131 Middle Huaihai Road, the 'Music Castle' is a four-story German-style building, showcasing the typical Bavarian style. The stained glass sparkles under the sunlight, and the interior is a world of its own. Originally, this building was wrapped and obscured by another structure of over 800 square meters, its beauty sealed away for many years. After demolition and comprehensive restoration, its original splendor has been revealed to the world. Walking on the creaking wooden staircase is like listening to the stories of time. Ascending the stairs, one can reach the attic on the top floor. In different rooms, the uniquely shaped fireplaces, decorative tiles, and wallpapers are dazzling. There are many 'Bacchus' patterns on the reliefs and wood decorations, echoing the three Bacchus sculptures on the tower to the north of the building. 'Bacchus' is the hidden motif of this building, and experts speculate that perhaps the original owner was fond of wine. At the same time, 'Bacchus' represents harvest and rebirth, which may also reflect the feelings that the city of Shanghai brought to them." 15 stained glass windows cast a kaleidoscope of light and shadow, mostly featuring fruit, flowers, and bird patterns. Next to the staircase leading to the second floor, there are four stained glass windows with the theme 'Swallows Bringing Spring'. Originally, these stained glass windows had many signs of damage, but they have been brought back to life through partial repairs and cleaning. Upon close inspection, the spread wings of the swallows and the gradient colors of the flowers and leaves hardly reveal any signs of repair. Although the craft of stained glass is complex, Shanghai has many skilled artisans, and the craftsmanship is very mature. After World War I, as German trade and expatriates gradually faded from Shanghai, the German style became a 'fleeting glimpse' in the catalog of Shanghai's modern architectural styles. Today, the Music Castle, ever new through the ages, has become Shanghai's most fashionable new cultural landmark.