Castles!

My friends from Europe don't quite understand my answer to their question: "Why are you going to Europe?" My answer: "Castles!" 

I love America and I am proud of my country but there is one thing America just doesn't have, castles. I have traveled to quite a few places outside my home country and here are a few of the castles I have seen.

(1)Heidelberg Castle in Heidelberg Germany

Built in the 14th century this castle has a rough history. It was over run by the Romans, the Swedes and the French. It has been blown up, struck by lighting, caught on fire numerous times, and even had its materials taken to be used for other buildings.

My favorite thing about this castle is its old ruin feel. The red color of the stone is breath-taking and its multi-level courtyards and gardens are stunning. 

Also, let's not forget the beautiful views from the balcony of the city of Heidelburg. 

There is a small fee to visit the castle and it is a hike up either hundreds of stairs or a rather steep red cobble stone path but definitely worth the trek. 

(2) Hohenschwangau castle near Fussen Germany

This castle sits on a hill near a lake in the mountains. It is a yellow/orange color and was built in the Gothic style. This castle has a mascot. A swan in remembrance of the swan knights. 

This castle was built by a Bavarian King named Maximilian II. He was the father to Ludwig II who grew up here in the castle. Ludwig would become king at the age of 18. 

Later Ludwig II would built a castle of his own, Neuschwanstein castle which you will read about next.

(3) Neuschwanstein Castle near Fussen Germany

This is the fairy tale castle seen portrayed on many a postcards and paintings. This castle was built by Ludwig II one of the Bavarian Kings. It took 24 years to complete and sadly Ludwig II died before seeing its completion. 

Ludwig was a man of fantasy and imagination. The decor and furnishing in the castle are amazing. Ludwig spared no expense to create this lavish palace. 

The Hohenschwangau and Neuschwanstein castles can only be seen via a guided tour. No photography is allowed inside these castle in order to preserve the original beauty and art. Once again getting to these two castle is a bit of a hike. You can pay to ride in a horse drawn carriage for some of the way but there is still a hike to get to the both of these palaces. 

The tours are offered in many different languages mainly German and English but get your tickets early for the tours fill up quickly.

(4) Nymphenburg Palace in Munich Germany

It was built in the 1660's as a summer home for the Wittlebach family. It was built in honor of their son Max Emanuel, Prince of Bavaria (1679-1726). The elaborate detail is worth the visit. The entire place is covered in paintings and carvings.

Photography is allowed but please turn off your camera's flash to help preserve the artwork. I forgot to turn off my flash and took a picture. One of the museum curators scolded me in three different languages. I quickly apologized (in English) and continued on. 

Not only is the inside of this palace stunning but so is the outside. The gardens, lakes and statues make walking the palace grounds a memorable site.

(5) Hohensalzburg Castle in Salzburg Austria

This castle was constructed on Festungsberg mountain overlooking the city of Salzburg and the Salzach River. 

Its construction started in 1077 by Archbishop Gebhard von Helfenstein. 

There is an elevator at the other end of the city which one can take to get to the top of the cliffs where the castle is located. Then there is a scenic walkway along the top of the cliffs which provide beautiful views of the city. Along the way there are several beer-gardens and look-out points. 

Castles come in so many different shapes and colors and each with their own rich history. These are just a few of the castles I have had the privileged to visit and there are so many more I wish to see :)