One of the most recognizable themes in European folklore is the castle! In our fanciful depictions of these sites, we picture a prince, princess, knight, horses, moats, and even an uncommon monster. Only some people, however, can identify the precise castles that inspired these well-known stories, and some believe that most are works of fiction. Whatever it is, it looks magnificent in real life!
Castles had to withstand attacks when kings and queens of old built them to protect and dominate their kingdoms. As a result, magnificent palaces with elegant and elaborate chambers, halls, thrones and royal rooms were built beside strong keeps and forbidding walls.
These castles were frequently constructed in strategic and magnificent settings, such as at the mouths of valleys, at the gateway to mountain routes, or on sparkling lakeshores, in addition to the fantastic architecture on display.
Some of the most elegant castles in the world may be found when these architectural wonders are combined with the weight of history and placed in spectacular settings!
These six ancient castles rank among the most stunning in the world and probably shaped how we perceive the Middle Ages.
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Neuschwanstein Castle
Bavaria’s Neuschwanstein Castle appears as though it has just been plucked out of a book of children’s fairytales as it sits atop a forested mountain with the majestic Bavarian Alps in the background. The charming style of the castle is a combination of romanticist architecture and Ludwig II’s admiration and love of Richard Wagner’s operas.
Fittingly, the gorgeous palace served as the model for the Sleeping Beauty castle in Disneyland because of its stunning towers and grand entrance. The castle’s interiors are equally impressive, filled with magnificent artwork and priceless masterpieces. Visitors are welcome to take a tour of its opulent halls and chambers. Due to its magnificent design and gorgeous surroundings, Neuschwanstein Castle, one of the most well-liked tourist destinations in Germany, is regarded to be among the most beautiful castles in the world!
Trakai Island Castle
This majestic castle is situated on a small island, as its names imply, and is encircled by Lake Galve’s glistening waters! The massive red brick, not far from Vilnius, previously played a crucial strategic role for the Grand Duchy of Lithuania.
The castle and its beautiful Ducal palace, which were built in the second part of the 14th century, were returned to their original appearance and design in the 1960s. Trakai Island Castle‘s Gothic and Romanesque elements are truly astonishing when viewed from above the lake’s glistening waters.
You’ll have the opportunity to view this fabled castle and learn about the inhabitants’ fascinating past, the duration of the rebuilding, and the Karaite ethnic group.
History lovers! Visit Trakai Island Castle to discover its past!
Mont-Saint-Michel
The French Bay of Mont-Saint-Michel is one of the most magnificent spots on earth. Even though it isn’t officially a castle, anyone would find it impossible to dispute its grandeur.
The island’s peak is occupied by a medieval monastery that has long drawn tourists. According to mythology, Archangel Michael gave Bishop Aubert of a nearby town the go-ahead to construct a church on top of the island. The late 10th century saw the beginning of the Benedictine abbey construction.
The landscape around the island is constantly changing due to how swiftly the bay’s tides can recede and reveal a completely different scene. Hundreds of tourists visit the island every day, and during low tide, it is accessible on foot. Visitors are always welcomed at the abbey, parish church, and museums.
Vianden Castle
One of the most significant defensive castles west of the Rhine is the Vianden Castle, located in the tiny European nation of Luxembourg, sandwiched between France, Germany, and Belgium. The Vianden Castle is one of Luxembourg’s most stunning structures! Visit this castle to witness the elegance with your own eyes!
The fortress was gradually constructed between the 11th and the 14th centuries, despite having antecedents in the 10th century. Vianden Castle is an example of a Medieval design with semicircular arches.
Vianden Castle is located atop a hill above the town of Vianden, like numerous other medieval castles. It served as the residence of notable counts of Vianden with connections to the French Royal Family and the German imperial court until the early 15th century.
Bojnice Castle
The Bojnice Castle in Slovakia is charming and eerily fantastical. Unsurprisingly, one of Slovakia’s most popular tourist destinations.
Bojnice Castle, which was initially owned by Matthew III Csak and was renovated in the late 19th century, was built in the 12th century and was given to him by King Ladislaus V of Hungary in 1302.
The castle, set atop a travertine hill, has a historical and artistic museum inside its walls. The International Celebration of Ghosts and Spooks takes place in late April.
A huge and lovely park surrounds the castle, an essential component of this beautiful fortress.
Fenis Castle
In contrast to many other castles constructed for military and defensive objectives, Fenis castle is perched on top of a small hilltop. Despite having a defence system, its primary purpose was to serve as the Challant family’s residence.
It has a solid but harmonious design. Round towers are located in the pentagonal corners of their design. The southwest corner, which has a large tower, and the southern corner, which has a tower with a square design, are exceptions. Two perimeter walls surround the keep, and a corridor connects the watchtowers. The square tower provides entry to the castle, and the inside courtyard features a wooden balcony with magnificent murals and a semicircular stairway!
Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle is a stunning Scottish landmark, and it looks over Scotland’s capital from atop Castle Rock. Unsurprisingly, most medieval castles were situated in advantageous and magnificent areas, and the trick was to watch the adversary while remaining out of reach.
Edinburgh Castle was not spared from a turbulent past because of the conflicts between Scotland and England. The castle underwent multiple Scottish and English ownership changes throughout the First and Second Wars of Scottish Independence.
Even today, people still flock to the city to see Edinburgh Castle, where they may partake in several activities and guided tours.
Make sure to visit this elegant castle with stunning scenery at least once in your lifetime!
If you adore castles, the above list of the top 6 medieval castles must have inspired you to visit them as soon as possible on your next holiday! These six castles are a stunningly beautiful and elegant sight to see! Return to a realm with knights, princesses, legends, and plenty of fantasy-inspiring literature!
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