Neuschwanstein Castle is a Romanesque Revival palace built in the late 1800’s by King Ludwing II of Bavaria. It sits high above the village of Hohenschwangau in southwest Bavaria, Germany. If the castle looks vaguely familiar, it is because Neuschwanstein castle was the inspiration behind Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle.
King Ludwig II intended the palace to serve as a retreat from his palace in Munich and personally paid for its construction rather than using public funds. At least some of the inspiration for the castle’s design is attributed to Richard Wagner – a dear friend of King Ludwig’s. Richard Wagner was a composer and theorist whose operas and music greatly influenced the evolution of music in the western world.
When King Ludwig passed away in 1886, the castle was opened to the public and more than 61 million people have visited. A few of my favorite photos from Neuschwanstein Castle:
Scenic vistas walking up the steep road to Neuschwanstein Castle and the road going up beyond the castle:
Historical Context
The region known today as Bavaria was originally settled by Iron Age Celts. The Roman Empire took control of the region around 100 BC. As the Western Roman Empire collapsed, Bavaria become part of the Kingdom of Germany around 600 AD and later became a sovereign kingdom.
King Ludwig II ascended to the Bavarian throne at age 18 in 1864. Several years later, Bavaria joined the Prussian-led German Empire in the Franco-Prussian (French-German) War of 1870 and, became a German state.
I was so lucky enough to go there in October last year!!!! Amazing photos.!!!!!
We went to both of the castles that day!
Thank you Sheri, so glad you enjoyed the images and were also able to make that trip. Yes, the whole area around there (the other castle and down by the lake) is fantastic! I’m looking forward to featuring those in future posts.
It’s on my list of places to visit as soon as the Coronavirus pandemic is lifted!
I hope that is soon…we are all getting restless. There is another castle close by and gorgeous lake. It will be a fun day.
Reblogged this on THE FLENSBURG FILES and commented:
One of the places that is most common for Germany is the Castle Neuschwanstein, located between Munich and Garmish-Partenkirchen. The castle is loaded with stories and history, especially behind the life of King Ludwig II. Keep in mind though, when visiting the place, plan early. The lines may be long at the gate. More on the castle via guest column here:
Thanks so much for reflagging this…along with the additional tips too.
I would love to visit this fairy tale castle. I enjoyed your photos but I bet seeing it in person is amazing. Your header photos for each post are fantastic!
Thank you for the kind comment. 😊 It was wonderful to walk through the castle and also to gain a real appreciation for the King’s eccentricity. The entire mountain area around it must be a protected park because it is all forest and beautiful. Regarding the header photos, I try to pick my personal favorites – glad you like those too! 😃
Love the angle you have taken.
Thank you, there was a real sense of height with the castle…from afar and close.