Neuschwanstein Castle is a 19th-century Roman Revival palace on a steep hill above the village of Hohenschwangau near Füssen in southwest Bavaria, Germany.
Neuschwanstein Castle above the clouds like a fairy tale
The castle was intended as a private sanctuary for the king, but opened to the public shortly after his death in 1886. Since then more than 61 million people have visited Neuschwanstein Castle. More than 1.3 million people visit each year, with as many as 6,000 per day in the summer.
Castle history
Sketch of Neuschwanstein Castle
The palace was commissioned by Ludwig II of Bavaria as a resting place and in honor of Richard Wagner.
Contrary to popular belief, Ludwig decided to pay the cost of building the palace from his personal fortune and not with public or royal funds.
Exterior and interior
The castle's exterior is striking with its white limestone faade and tall towers, but the interior is even more opulent adorned with many murals, tapestries, stained glass windows, and wood carvings. Ludwig II was deeply fascinated by Richard Wagner's operas and he commissioned many interior designs to reflect this interest.
Dining room in Neuschwanstein castle
Bedroom in Neuschwanstein castle
Singers Hall and Throne Room
One of the highlights of a visit to Neuschwanstein Castle is the Singers Hall which features a grand staircase and impressive murals depicting scenes from Wagner's opera. Other highlights include the King Bedroom with four-poster bed and views of the surrounding countryside; Throne Room with its golden throne; and the Fairy Tale Room decorated with scenes from Hansel and Gretel and other fairy tales.
Singers Hall in Neuschwanstein castle
The Throne Room in Neuschwanstein castle
Neuschwanstein Castle at present
Neuschwanstein Castle is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world and is one of the most photographed buildings in Germany. The castle has also been featured in several films, including Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, The Great Escape, and The Hunger Games.
