From Darmstadt to the North - New Director for Kassel Museums - Hessen Kassel Heritage names Martin Faass as new director after turbulent year
Hessen Kassel Heritage (HKH) has appointed a new director after months of leadership changes. Martin Faass, an experienced art historian, will take over the role on 1 March. The state-run institution manages cultural heritage sites and collections across the Kassel region.
The position became vacant after the previous head, Martin Eberle, was removed in February 2025. Allegations of racism led to his dismissal. Eberle now works as Burghauptmann, or castle steward, at Wartburg Castle in Eisenach, Thuringia.
Justus Lange, the former deputy director, stepped in as interim leader following Eberle’s departure. Meanwhile, the search for a permanent replacement focused on candidates with strong academic and leadership qualities. Faass brings a wealth of experience to the role. He previously led the Hessian State Museum in Darmstadt. His appointment was welcomed by Timon Gremmels, Hessian Minister of Culture and the Arts, who highlighted Faass’s scholarly expertise and forward-thinking approach. Faass himself described HKH as a cultural legacy of international significance.
Faass will officially begin his tenure on 1 March. His leadership is expected to guide HKH through its next phase. The institution continues to oversee key art and heritage sites in and around Kassel.
