With over 2,000 years of rich history, Germany is home to some of Europe’s finest and most famous castles. The European country is home to more than 20,000 castles leaving tourists with plenty to choose from.
Their historical resident range from Kings and Knights to Dukes and Damsels, all of which adds to the mystique of the castles. Also, there are many artifacts, antiquities and artworks that can be found on the castle grounds of places such as Burg Altena, Dresden Castle, and Schloss Johannisburg.
Moreover, the castles which boast a rich history, have been restored to their former glory and, in some cases, are lived in by families of the founders.
1. Neuschwanstein Castle
One of Europe’s most popular tourist destinations, Neuschwanstein Castle is an idyllic 19th century Romanesque Revival palace situated near Füssen in the southwestern part of Bavaria.
Unlike other castles built which were built defense purpose, this castle was built by Ludwig II of Bavaria as a fanciful retreat. The Palace was an inspiration of the castle in the Disney movie, Sleeping Beauty.
2. Burg Eltz
Burg Eltz, which belongs to several heirs and descendants of Elz family is hidden deep in a rural, wooded dell and perched atop a 70-meter high rock.
The castle is one of Germany’s best examples of a medieval castle. Also, it still boasts of its original furnishings and treasures of gold, silver and porcelain.
3. Hohenzollern Castle
This castle was originally built in the 11th century but was destroyed over the centuries with only the chapel remaining. The present castle was built in the mid-19th century by King Frederick William IV of Prussia.
Hohenzollern castle has been home to Swabian counts and princes, Prussian kings, German emperors and is still owned and occupied by the Hohenzollerns.
4. Lichtenstein Castle
This is a privately owned castle, located in Southern Germany Dates back to the years 1100. It was destroyed at least twice and rebuilt in the 14th century about 500 metres from the original ruins.
The castle is known for its collection of historic weapons and armor.
5. Schwerin Castle
Since 1857, the extraordinary Schwerin Castle is state owned, but before that it housed dukes and grand dukes of Mecklenburg. It is an old castle which dates back to the early 900s, but more records can be found from the 1800s on.
Throughout the centuries this castle went through many updates, and only parts of the building dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries were retained. This beautiful piece of architecture is surrounded by lakes and forests in the northern part of Germany.
