Germany> Sights & Attractions

Neuschwanstein castle, Germany

Neuschwanstein Castle is located in Southern Germany near Munich. There is a wide variety of sightseeing tours, inclusive of or exclusively featuring this elegant, monumental, and gorgeous edifice in the Neo-Romanesque architectural style.

Dating back to 1886, it was built for King Ludwig II of Bavaria. A royal palace in the Bavarian Alps, it is surrounded by magnificent mountaintops, thick woods, and waterfalls. It offers a panorama of natural beauty as far as the eye can see.

The castle is a remarkable phenomenon in that it is a realization of the fantasy of the "mad king". It only existed in his mind at first - a splendid structure out of a German fairy tale, standing above a crystal blue alpine lake and consisting of 15 rooms all built in a variety of architectural styles - Romanesque, Gothic, Byzantine and medieval. Just the woodwork in the king's bedroom took nearly five years to do.

Work on the castle commenced in 1869 and continued for a full 17 years. Unfortunately the king did not live to see it completed, but the results of his plan are self-evident - this is the most gorgeous building in all of Germany, and maybe in the world.

The Mary's Bridge nearby offers the most beautiful view of the castle. A 45-m waterfall is in plain sight here. King Ludwig II believed that the location was the best one for his project. He had a vision of medieval castles, inspired by the romantic knight tales of the Middle Ages. He identified himself with Percival of the Holy Grail.

The royal castle is one of three most renowned, which were all built for this king, also known as Louis II of Bavaria. He was raised in Hohenschwangau Castle, another attraction in this region. Neuschwanstein's towers and lofty spires rise to the sky. A river gorge lies at the foundation of the structure.

A number of revolutionary architectural techniques were employed in its design and development, such as running water derived from the natural watercourses in the vicinity, toilets with flusher, a heating system throughout the premises, as well as conveniences like a kitchen and bath.

Ludwig II shared his dreams of the castle with his close personal friend, the famous composer Wagner. Themes of Wagner's creations are evident in some paintings gracing the walls of the castle.

The focal point of the castle is indisputably the Throne Hall. Employing a variety of religious aspects and designs, it was based on Byzantine dome styles and the All Saints Church in Munich. It manifests Ludwig's notion of a monarchy in the name of God.

Ludwig believed that he would be remembered eternally through the castle. His chief motive for having it built relates to the fact that he was largely a figurehead and had little actual power, and craved to feel important. The monumental castle gave him what he needed.

It was opened to the public only after he died, as he vigorously refused to let people in during his lifetime. The castle is filled with dream-like visions of heroes and saints. The essence of medieval poetry is translated here. Pictures on the walls involve the themes and love and regret, and salvation by the grace of God.

Important points to see in the castle are the opulent dining room, the lower hall, the salon, the grotto, the conservatory and the oratory. Naturally an elevator is not provided. Enthusiasts are welcome to tour the castle, a full 170 steps up and down. It is open every day throughout the year. Tours to the castle feature horse carriages and local guides.