If you’re starting to get the travel bug like me, then worry not, because it won’t be long until order in the universe is restored and we are all able to explore so much more of this wonderful planet we call home.
Now that I’ve got the soppy and sentimental stuff out of the way, let me talk to you about Germany. Now, I know what you’re thinking and no, I will not be mentioning sunbeds because we’re all adults here.
Germany is a stunning country famous for its sweet mustards, it’s love of sausage, and its efficiency, attention to detail, and engineering.
Do you know what else Germany is famous for? Its castles. I must admit, I’m a bit of a fan of castles so I’ve enjoyed researching this article immensely.
Here’s a look at what many consider to be se7en of the most beautiful castles in Germany.
Wartburg Castle
The first castle I’ll be sharing with you today is Wartburg Castle.
This castle dates comfortably back to the Middle Ages and is a huge hit with tourists and locals alike.
Overlooking the dense foliage of Thuringian Forest and the rustic town of Eisenach, this castle is like something out of a fairy-tale, and not necessarily a Grimm one, either.
Now, this castle is very special because it was here that the New Testament was translated into German from Ancient Greek, back between 1521 and 1522.
As the centuries went by the castle fell into a state of disrepair, though in the 19th Century it was restored back to its former glory.
Eltz Castle
Eltz Castle looks like something you’d find from a Disney epic. Yes, it really is that pretty.
Eltz Castle, located in Western Germany, is one of the most photographed castles in all of Europe, and I can see why.
Perched high atop a hillside in a valley, and surrounded by dense forest, Eltz Castle is a Medieval masterpiece that is still owned by the same family that owned it when it was constructed.
Marburger Schloss
Yes, the name may be a little unique to those of you who don’t reside in Germany, but let’s not worry about that now.
Instead, let’s take a look at another castle that many consider to be one the prettiest in all of Germany.
Marburg Castle sits prominently above the town of Marburg, and since being constructed in Medieval times, has undergone a lot of restoration and alteration.
For those with an interest in Central European Gothic architecture, both the great hall and the chapel are amongst the best examples you will ever see.
Best of all is the fact that within the confines of the castle, you will now find the Museum for Cultural History. So, if you’re a history buff like me, check it out.
Schwerin Castle
Schwerin Castle is one of those places that I’ve always wanted to visit just so that I can feel important.
It is regal, majestic, decadent, and is one of those places that has to be seen to be truly appreciated.
Schwerin Castle is situated in Northern Germany and sits regally on Lake Schwerin. According to records, there is evidence that the very first fortress on the island can be traced all the way back to the 10th century.
By comparison, the newer parts of the castle are virtually the equivalent of millennials, as they were constructed in the 19th century. Though the older parts were constructed back in the 16th century.
Built by Grand Duke Friedrich Franz II, the castle is constructed to the very highest of standards, in a Neo-Renaissance style.
Lichtenstein Castle
Lichtenstein Castle is located in Badden-Wurttemberg, is privately owned, and is a 19th century Gothic Revival castle that looks like something from Harry Potter or Lord of the Rings.
Seriously, if you want to visit a castle that strongly resembles something from a fantasy epic, my money is on you not finding anywhere more appropriate than this particular castle.
It is perched majestically 2,680 feet above sea level, and 820 feet high above the River Echaz.
Commissioned by Duke Wilhelm of Urach, the castle was deliberately designed and constructed in a Medieval style as he was such a fan of Medieval history.
Complete with turrets, bastions, a stunning courtyard, an outer bailey, and a barbican, there’s certainly plenty to take in and keep you occupied.
Zwinger
Dresden is a city that many people instantly fall in love with when visiting Germany, for a whole host of different reasons.
The food is fantastic, the architecture is breath-taking, and there is plenty to keep you occupied.
On top of that, Dresden is also home to Zwinger.
This stunning Baroque castle is home to three unique museums, including The Old Master’s Picture Gallery.
Zwinger was built in the 18th century, and was restored and rebuilt by military authorities from the Soviet Union after the Second World War, which saw the palace sustain a great deal of damage.
Worry not, though, because they did an awesome job and it now looks better than ever. I for one couldn’t believe how well they managed to restore everything, given that Dresden was basically razed from the map.
Moyland Castle
Finally, I’ll leave you with Moyland Castle.
This castle is located in North West Germany and is close to the border with the Netherlands.
Moyland Castle features a moat and is exactly how you’d imagine a castle to look in your head. With a keep comprised of four keeps, and designed in a Neo Gothic style, it makes for quite the Instagram snap, especially on a nice day.
During WW2, the castle sustained a heck of a lot of damage to the interior, and so the inside is now home to a museum displaying works from greats such as Hans van der Grinten.
The best part about this list is that a follow-up to it feels almost necessary: there are plenty of other neat castles to choose from in Germany. For example, I haven’t even included the incredible Hohenzollern Castle in Bisingen or the majestic Newschwnstein!
Let me know if you enjoyed this article in a comment I’ll be glad to share with you other amazing castles in Germany.
Until we’ll be able to roam again freely, make some travel plans and don’t stop wandering – at least in your imagination.
