Bentheim (noble family)

The earliest known member of the family is Everwin von Götterswick/Güterswyk, c. 1200, supposedly the descendent of a knight named Godert who had settled on the lower Rhine near Wesel.

[2] In 1486, Holy Roman Emperor Frederick III formally recognized Bentheim as an immediate Imperial County; it belonged to the Westphalian College of Counts.

[3] The county was partitioned numerous times over the following centuries, notably in 1609, following the death of Count Arnold von Bentheim-Steinfurt.

[4] The Bentheims lost their status as independent rulers in 1806, following the dissolution of the Holy Roman Empire, when they were mediatized by the Grand Dutchy of Berg.

[8] Both princely branches still own numerous historical family properties, including Bentheim Castle, many of which are open to the public.