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Neuschwanstein Castle, Bavaria, Germany

Bavaria is a place where time seems to have stood still, where history intertwines with nature, and where art blends with legend. A journey through this region is an immersion into an enchanted world, where dream castles emerge from breathtaking landscapes, telling stories of visionary kings, tormented loves, and court intrigues.

Neuschwanstein: The Apotheosis of Romanticism

www.neuschwanstein.de

Neuschwanstein Castle interior

Neuschwanstein, the quintessential fairytale castle, is the emblem of Bavarian Romanticism. Built by King Ludwig II as a personal refuge and homage to composer Richard Wagner, Neuschwanstein is a riot of towers, spires, and sumptuous decorations.

Well-known facts:

• Official source: Neuschwanstein Castle website: https://www.neuschwanstein.de/
• It inspired the Disney castle of Sleeping Beauty.
• It is one of the most visited castles in the world, with over 1.4 million visitors annually.

Lesser-known facts:

• Ludwig II lived in the castle for only 172 days before dying under mysterious circumstances.
• The castle’s rooms are decorated with scenes from Wagner’s operas, such as Lohengrin and Parsifal.
• The castle was never completed due to Ludwig II’s death.

For the 2.0 tourist:

• Book tickets online to avoid long queues.
• Visit the Marienbrücke bridge for a spectacular view of the castle.
• Take a guided tour to discover the secrets and curiosities of Neuschwanstein.

Hohenschwangau: The Cradle of a King

en.wikipedia.org

Hohenschwangau Castle

A short walk from Neuschwanstein is Hohenschwangau, the castle where Ludwig II spent his childhood and youth. Built in the 19th century in a neo-Gothic style, Hohenschwangau is a place rich in history and charm.

Well-known facts:

• Official source: Hohenschwangau Castle website: https://www.hohenschwangau.de/
• It was the summer residence of the Bavarian royal family.
• It is surrounded by a lush park with lakes and waterfalls.

Lesser-known facts:

• The castle houses a collection of paintings and sculptures by 19th-century German artists.
• The Knights’ Hall is decorated with frescoes depicting scenes from Bavarian history.
• The castle has been restored several times over the centuries.

For the 2.0 tourist:

• Visit Hohenschwangau in combination with Neuschwanstein for a complete experience.
• Take a guided tour to learn about the history of the castle and the Bavarian royal family.
• Enjoy a walk in the surrounding park.

Herrenchiemsee: The Bavarian Versailles

www.herrenchiemsee.de

Herrenchiemsee Castle

Herrenchiemsee, located on an island in Lake Chiemsee, is another of Ludwig II’s dream castles. Inspired by the Palace of Versailles, Herrenchiemsee is a masterpiece of luxury and opulence.

Well-known facts:

• Official source: Herrenchiemsee Castle website: https://www.herrenchiemsee.de/
• The castle houses the world’s largest collection of Nymphenburg porcelain.
• The Hall of Mirrors is an exact replica of the one in Versailles.

Lesser-known facts:

• Ludwig II visited the castle only seven times before his death.
• The castle was completed only after his death.
• The castle gardens are a true paradise for nature lovers.

For the 2.0 tourist:

• Reach the castle by boat to enjoy a pleasant cruise on Lake Chiemsee.
• Visit the Hall of Mirrors and the Nymphenburg porcelain collection.
• Stroll through the castle gardens and admire the fountains, statues, and flowers.

Burghausen: The Impregnable Fortress

en.wikipedia.org

Burghausen Castle

Burghausen, at 1051 meters long, is the longest castle in Europe. Situated on a hill overlooking the Salzach River, Burghausen is an imposing and well-preserved medieval fortress.

Well-known facts:

• Official source: Burghausen Castle website: https://www.burghausen.de/
• It was the residence of the Dukes of Bavaria-Landshut.
• It is surrounded by imposing walls and six courtyards.

Lesser-known facts:

• The castle houses a city museum with archaeological finds and works of art.
• A medieval festival with shows and historical reenactments takes place every summer.
• The panoramic view from the castle tower is breathtaking.

For the 2.0 tourist:

• Walk through the entire castle complex to appreciate its vastness.
• Visit the city museum and discover the history of Burghausen.
• Participate in the medieval festival to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the past.

Linderhof: A Rococo Jewel

en.wikipedia.org

Linderhof Palace

Linderhof, the smallest of Ludwig II’s castles, is a Rococo jewel nestled in a lush park. The castle is famous for its Venus Grotto, an artificial cave illuminated by colored lights and decorated with statues and frescoes.

Well-known facts:

• Official source: Linderhof Palace website: https://support.google.com/webmasters/thread/176251023/outdated-content-removal-invalid-url?hl=en
• It was the only castle of Ludwig II to be completed during his lifetime.
• The castle houses a collection of priceless furniture and art objects.

Lesser-known facts:

• The Venus Grotto was inspired by Wagner’s opera Tannhäuser.
• The castle is surrounded by Italian and English gardens.
• The Moorish Kiosk, located in the park, is an example of exotic architecture.

For the 2.0 tourist:

• Visit the Venus Grotto and be enchanted by its magical atmosphere.
• Admire the castle’s collection of furniture and art objects.
• Stroll through the gardens and discover their hidden corners.

A journey through history, art, and nature

A journey through the castles of Upper Bavaria is an unforgettable experience. These enchanted places, immersed in breathtaking landscapes, transport us to a world of dreams and fantasy, where history blends with legend and art intertwines with nature.

Beyond the castles, Upper Bavaria offers many other attractions to discover. The region is rich in historic cities, picturesque villages, crystal-clear lakes, and imposing mountains. Nature lovers can explore the Berchtesgaden National Park, while winter sports enthusiasts can ski on the slopes of Garmisch-Partenkirchen.

Bavaria is also a land of traditions and culture. The region is famous for its beer, its traditional costumes, and its folk festivals. Tasting a mug of beer in an outdoor beer garden, attending a traditional music concert, or participating in a folk festival are experiences that will make your trip even more special.

A trip to Bavaria is an opportunity to discover a fascinating world full of surprises. Whether you are passionate about history, art, nature, or culture, you will surely find something that will captivate you.