Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany

The Neuschwanstein Castle is a 19th century Bavarian castle of Germany. This castle was built by Ludwig II, King of Bavaria, as a retreat and as homage to Richard Wagner, the King's inspiring muse.

The castle has a gatehouse, a Bower, the Knight's House with a square tower, and a Palas, or citadel, with two towers to the Western end. It has a theatrical look, both externally and within.

The king's influence is apparent throughout and his interest in the design and decoration of the castle resulted in this magnificent structure. The castle has a room that is made to look like a cavern, as well as a secret flushing toilet in the master bedroom.

The toilet flushes with water collected from an aqueduct. There is a suite of rooms within the Palas containing the Throne Room followed by Ludwig's suite, followed by the Singers' Hall and by the Grotto. The design pays homage to the operas of Richard Wagner, a reflection of Ludwig's love for Wagner's work, and perhaps for Wagner himself. In 2007, this castle was a finalist in the selection of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Location

The Neuschwanstein Castle is located near Hohenschwangau and Füssen in southwest Bavaria of Germany.
Historical Importance

The concept of the castle was outlined by Ludwig II in a letter to Richard Wagner, dated May 13, 1868. It was on September 5, 1869, the foundation stone of the building was laid. The castle of Neuschwanstein was designed by Christian Jank, a theatrical set designer, rather than an architect. The architectural expertise, vital to such a perilously-sited building, was provided first by the Munich court architect, Eduard Riedel, and latterly by Georg Dollman and Leo Von Klenze.

This castle was originally known as the "New Hohenschwangau Castle" until the king's death. Later, it was re-named Neuschwanstein, the castle of the Swan Knight, Lohengrin, of Wagner's opera of the same name.

Nearby Attractions

Berlin
Berlin has a myriad of individual sights to see. Apart from the remnants of the infamous Berlin Wall, and the last remaining gate, the Brandenburg Gate, there are other important historical places such as the Prussian historical Charlottenburg Palace, the Soviet War Memorial and its statues bearing tribute to the Russian soldiers who died fighting Hitler. There is a remarkably diverse zoo which features over 13,000 different species.

Romantic Road
With over 220 miles of enchanting vistas, the Romantic Road is one of the most picturesque of Germany attractions. It ranges from the River Main in the north and winds its way south to the Alps, passing through the walled towns and the villages.

Dachau
The concentration camp called Dachau provides an essential balance in perspective. Built in 1933, it is unique among the concentration camps as it served as a training ground for those that would staff the other camps—such as Auschwitz in Poland.

Lake Constance
Lake Constance is the largest aquatic tourist attraction in Germany.

Black Forest
The Black Forest is a wonderful place and is quite sunny during the summer. The thick covering of dark fir and pine trees earned this stretch of hills and valleys its namesake.

Cologne Cathedral
The Cologne Cathedral or the Kölner Dom is the biggest edifice of its kind in the country. Its construction took place over the course of 600 years. Its most treasured artifact is the Sarcophagus of the Magi, a great gilded piece.

Heidelberg
The Heidelberg is a beautiful castle that perfects the town’s skyline.

Frisian Islands
The Frisian Islands provide a unique experience with crisp sea air and miles and miles of sandy beaches.