The most unusual castles in the world. The most beautiful castles in the world: rating, names, interesting facts and reviews
The ancient castles of the world, more than any other structures, evoke the images of medieval knights, long bloody sieges, the splendor of royal life. How does it feel to live behind thick stone walls, warming yourself by a giant fireplace in a tall tower?
Each castle - from the romantic one in France to the fabulous Leeds setting in England - has its own story. In the Middle Ages, they served several purposes - a symbol of the power of a king or nobleman, a home for their family and provided a refuge during the attack of enemies. The earliest medieval castles were made of wood, often standing on a dais with a moat around it. After the 9th century, wooden structures began to be replaced by stone fortresses. Many of these fine examples of defensive structures are well preserved to this day, such as Cairr in Ireland, Carrickfergus in England, or Edinburgh in Scotland.
Castles of Ukraine demonstrate the original features of wooden architecture, as well as dome and cross vaults. To repel the Tatar-Turkish raids, fortified structures of brick () or stone () were built. One of the most outstanding monuments of defense architecture in Ukraine is.
When the states of Europe united and the wars died down, castles were no longer just forts for survival during a siege. Kings and nobles began to build luxurious palaces to show your power and wealth. like others french castles the Loire valleys were erected more for pleasure than defense. In Ireland, Bantry and Tulinally House are prime examples of a luxury estate. The most recognizable castle of this style - in Germany - is the model of the palace for Cinderella and Sleeping Beauty in the Walt Disney films.
Today, the fate of most of them was to turn them either into tourist sites or in ruins, some are in a state of restoration, others have been converted into hotels or rented out.
There are, however, ancient castles that still remain the family residence. For example, in Scotland, the motherland of the Queen Mother, it has been in the same family for over 600 years. The British royal family continues to use several ancient structures, one of them on the outskirts of London is today the largest residential castle in the world.
We, who were not born into the royal family, find it difficult to imagine what such a luxurious structure can be family home... But visiting the most beautiful castles world, everyone can dream of royal life in one of these fabulous houses.
Many of us love history and enjoy watching historical films, whether fictional or documentary. We want to know how people used to live, what they did, etc. Especially interesting is the mysterious era of the Middle Ages, of which knights and, of course, castles were an integral part.
So, we present to your attention one of the most beautiful objects of history - the famous castles of Europe.
1. Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany
Neuschwanstein Castle is located in southernmost Germany, next to the border with Austria. The castle itself rises majestically on a green hill, high above the village of Hohenschwangau and Lake Alpsi. Neuschwanstein Castle is one of the many historic landmarks that dot the entire area, but its grandeur and architectural style make it stand out from the crowd. Built at the end of the 19th century, it is one of the most famous European castles. There is something to admire not only from the outside, but also from the inside. Be sure to visit Neuschwanstein on your travels in Germany.
2. Peles Castle, Romania
Peles Castle is nestled in the beautiful green hills of the Carpathians in central Romania. During a trip to a small but picturesque mountain village Sinaia, you will be enchanted by the imposing architecture of the castle dating back to the Neo-Renaissance. Built at the beginning of the 20th century, the castle today is one of the largest historical sites in Romania. Inside, you will be overwhelmed by the abundance of lavish collections of armor, weapons, artwork and other interesting items.
3. Brodick Castle, Scotland
Brodick Castle is a real historical gem of Scotland located on the east coast of the Isle of Arran. The whole area around the castle is covered with a country park, during your scenic walk in the picturesque gardens of the castle, you will be amazed by the green trees and meadows. The castle, which was built in the 16th century, enchants with its reddish hues, large windows and mighty towers. Read also about other castles in Scotland in a separate collection.
4. Bran Castle, Romania
Bran Castle is located in the heart of the country and is known for its beautiful location. Nestled in green mountain hills and picturesque villages, the white façades against the backdrop of red colored domes and roofs provide a mystical accent to the atmosphere. Indeed, Bran Castle is filled with mysticism and symbolism, also known as Dracula's Castle. All local legends, one way or another, are associated with Count Dracula.
5. Lincoln Castle, England
Lincoln Castle is located in the heart of the village of Lincoln in England. This is an 11th century structure definitely worth visiting on your trip to northeast England. Lincoln Castle is unique. Within the fortified walls you can see interesting buildings and a courtyard. It is now used as a museum that offers a unique historical experience. Read more about castles in England in a separate collection on LifeGlobe.
6. Eltz Castle, Germany
Eltz Castle is one of the most picturesque in western Germany. it stands high above a hill, surrounded by a stream that flows into the neighboring Moselle River. The castle was built in the 12th century, with a distinctive Romanesque architectural style, with a lot of baroque and gothic decorations. If you want to fully immerse yourself in the charm of its historical heritage, go inside and explore the interior. There you can find a complex web of rooms that can say a lot more about Eltz. Read also about other castles in Germany in a separate article.
7. Castle of Mont-Saint-Michel, France
This is one of the most famous castles in France. Mont Saint Michel is located on a rocky island along the Normandy coast. The history of the construction of this castle dates back to the 6th century, when it was used mainly for military purposes due to its unique strategic location. The rocky island was connected to the mainland through a tiny and narrow bridge that was completely flooded due to strong currents. Thus, the fortress was almost inaccessible, but now it is one of the most visited historical sites in France.
8. Marienburg Castle, Poland
Marienburg Castle is one of the largest castles in the world, located along the banks of the Nogat River in Poland. Malbork was built by the Teutons in the early 15th century when it was the world's largest brick castle. The castle impresses with its medieval architecture, with predominantly red colors.
9. Spiš Castle in Slovakia
In the heart of eastern Slovakia lies another imposing addition to the largest and most famous castles in Europe. This is the breathtaking 12th century Spiš Castle, renowned for its white color, Romanesque architecture and numerous Gothic elements. Since Spišský hrad is located at an elevation of more than 600 meters, from its summit you can enjoy an incredible panoramic vista.
10. Versailles Palace, France
Chateau de Versailles amazes with its gigantic square. And even if this is not quite a castle, it still closes the top ten on our list. Versailles is one of the most famous architectural complexes in France, which is located in southwestern Paris. Among the sights of Paris, this is one of the most visited places.
Today you have a unique opportunity to take a virtual trip to 10 most beautiful castles on the planet... I am sure their history, interesting architecture and many mysterious legends that walk like the walls of castles will surely surprise you and will be remembered for a long time. But what is there to say, if only the names of the castles awaken imagination!
Egret castle
The incredibly beautiful Egret castle in Japan has a very unusual architecture, not at all similar to European. Built on a flat mountain peak, it consists of 83 buildings. Himeji - and this is how the name of the castle sounds in translation from Japanese - real fortress... The main citadel of the Egret Castle is protected by a labyrinth of paths. It is almost impossible for unwanted "guests" to get out of there - the paths lead the invaders to a dead end, where they are attacked from above!
Schönbrunn, Austria
The most interesting part of the Schönbrunn Castle in Vienna, built by the Habsburg dynasty, is the "Roman Ruins" of the 18th century. Their wonderful architecture imitates ancient Roman architecture. Therefore, walking this part of the castle is very interesting - as if you find yourself in ancient Rome.
Wartburg, Germany
This castle in Thuringia is about a thousand years old. The castle is often associated with the name of Martin Luther. It is said that it was here that Luther translated the Bible into German. And it is not surprising, because the ancient castle really brings thoughts of morality, harmony, peace.
Beaumaris, Wales
The name of this castle in translation sounds like "Beautiful swamp". Architecturally, Beaumaris is considered the most ideal castle in Great Britain. It was built by order of Edward II. Construction lasted for 35 years, starting in 1295. However, due to lack of funds, it remained unfinished.
Chapultepec, Mexico
The magnificent castle - Chapultepec towers over the capital of Mexico. Its rich mansions are considered the most luxurious in all North America... Now Chapultepec - historical Museum, and once the royal family lived there. There was a castle and an observatory, and a military academy.
King Ludwig Castle (Neuschwanstein), Germany
Neuschwanstein Castle - the plan of the Bavarian king Ludwig II. The castle walls offer a view that no castle in the world can boast of! There is no place more photographed in Germany than Neuschwanstein. The king conceived it as a mountain refuge: there is a gatehouse, a citadel, and the House of the Knight with a square tower. WITH German language the name of the castle sounds like "New Swan Stone".
The image of the palace of Ludwig II was often used in Disney cartoons - Neuschwanstein is so beautiful!
Chambord, France
The beautiful Chambord, which amazes tourists from all over the world with its enormous size, was built just as a hunting lodge. Here the king could take a break from the daily worries of the state. The castle is closely intertwined with medieval French and classic Italian architecture. Chambord is one of the most famous castles on the planet.
Chenonceau, France
Chenonceau Castle, which crosses the Cher River like a bridge, was built in the 16th century. by order of Catherine Briconne, and since then its history has been closely associated with female names. To the east are the lush gardens once tended by Diane de Poitiers, and to the west are the gardens of Catherine de Medici.
Maria Stuart also stayed at the castle. In the XVIII century. here lived Madame Dupin, who glorified this place by inviting teachers here - the famous writers Voltaire and Rousseau - for her son.
Alhambra Castle, Spain
A castle with red-colored walls appeared in Spain in the 9th century. "Red Fortress" - this is how the name of the palace is translated. Surprisingly, for a long time the castle was abandoned, or served as a barracks for the troops of Naoleon. And only in 1870 justice was renewed - the Alhambra was taken under protection and declared a national treasure.
Prague Castle, Czech Republic
Residence of Czech rulers. According to the Guinness Book of Records, it is the largest castle in the world. It is 570 m long and 130 m wide. There are churches, residences, towers, and even stables here. The Prague Castle is especially beautiful at night, under the light of lanterns.
The royal regalia of Bohemia are kept in the Prague Castle. According to legend, if the country is ruled by a usurper, the regalia will bring him death within a year. This is exactly what happened to Reinhard Heydrich during World War II. He died a year after he ascended the throne ...
Which castle inspired Pyotr Tchaikovsky to create Swan Lake? Where was Indiana Jones filmed? How do ancient European castles function today? Lovers of mystical landscapes, romantic travel and mysterious legends! Our material is especially for you!
Eltz (German Burg Eltz) is a castle located in the state of Rhineland-Palatinate (commune Wirsch) in the valley of the Elzbach river. Together with the Bürresheim Palace, it is considered the only structure in western Germany that has never been destroyed or captured. The castle was not damaged even during the wars of the 17th and 18th centuries. and events French revolution.
The castle has been perfectly preserved to this day. On three sides, it is surrounded by a river and rises on a rock 70 meters high. This makes it consistently popular with tourists and photographers.
Official site
Bled Castle, Slovenia (XI century)
One of the oldest castles in Slovenia (Slovenian. Blejski grad) is located on the top of a 130-meter cliff near the lake of the same name near the town of Bled. The most ancient part the castle is a tower in the Romanesque style, which was used for housing, and for defense, and for observing the surroundings of the castle.
During the Second World War, the headquarters of the German troops was located here. In 1947, a fire broke out in the castle, due to which some of the buildings were damaged. A few years later, the castle was restored and it resumed its activities as a historical museum. The collection of the museum presents clothes, weapons and household items.
Official site
(XIX century)
The romantic castle of King Ludwig II is located near the town of Füssen in southwestern Bavaria. The castle became a source of inspiration for the construction of Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland Paris. Neuschwanstein (German: Schloß Neuschwanstein) is also featured in the 1968 film Chitty Chitty Bang Bang as the castle of the fictional land of Vulgaria. Pyotr Tchaikovsky was fascinated by the sight of Neuschwanstein. According to historians, it was here that he got the idea of creating the ballet Swan Lake.
Neuschwanstein Castle is featured in the films Ludwig II: The Glitter and Fall of the King (1955, directed by Helmut Koitner), Ludwig (1972, directed by Luchino Visconti), Ludwig II of Bavaria (2012, directed by Marie Noel and Peter Zehr).
The castle is currently a museum. To visit, you need to buy a ticket at the ticket center and go up to the castle by bus, as well as on foot or by horse-drawn carriage. The only person who "lives" in the castle on this moment and is its keeper - the watchman.
Official site
The castle in Livorno got its name due to the fact that the local coastline is known as Boccale (Pitcher) or Cala dei Pirati (Pirates' Bay). The center of modern Castello del Boccale was an observation tower, built by order of the Medici in 16th century, presumably on the ruins of an older structure from the period of the Pisa Republic. Throughout its history appearance the castle has undergone changes more than once. Per last years a thorough restoration of Castello del Boccale was carried out, after which the castle was divided into several residential apartments.
The legendary castle (rum. Bran Castle) is located in the picturesque town of Bran, 30 km from Brasov, on the border of Muntenia and Transylvania. It was originally built at the end of the XIV century by forces and means. local residents for exemption from paying taxes to the state treasury for several centuries. Due to its cliff-top location and trapezoidal shape, the castle served as a strategic defensive fortress.
The castle has 4 levels connected by a staircase. During its history, the castle changed several owners: it belonged to Lord Mircea the Old, the inhabitants of Brasov and the Habsburg Empire ... According to legend, during his campaigns the famous voivode Vlad Tepes-Dracula spent the night in the castle, and its surroundings were the favorite hunting place of Lord Tepes.
Currently, the castle belongs to the descendant of the Romanian kings, the grandson of Queen Mary, Dominic Habsburg (in 2006, according to the new Romanian law on the return of territories to the previous owners). After the transfer of the castle to the owner, all the furniture was taken to the museums of Bucharest. And Dominic Habsburg had to re-create the decoration of the castle, buying various antiques.
Official site
Alcazar Castle, Spain (IX century)
Fortress Spanish kings Alcazar (Spanish Alcázar) is located in the historical part of the city of Segovia on a cliff. Over the years of its existence, the Alcazar was not only a royal palace, but also a prison, as well as an artillery academy. According to archaeologists, even in Roman times, a military fortification existed on the site of the Alcazar. During the Middle Ages, the castle was the favorite residence of the kings of Castile. In 1953, the Alcazar was turned into a museum.
Currently, it remains one of the most visited tourist destinations in Spain. A museum is open in the palace, which displays furniture, interiors, a collection of weapons, portraits of the kings of Castile. 11 rooms are available for viewing and the most tall tower- the tower of Juan II.
Chambord Castle, France (XVI century)
Chambord (French Château de Chambord) - one of the most recognizable castles in France, architectural masterpiece Renaissance era. The facade is 156 m long, 117 m wide, the castle has 426 rooms, 77 staircases, 282 fireplaces and 800 sculptural capitals.
According to historical research, Leonardo da Vinci himself took part in the design. Since 1981, it has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Since 2005, the castle has the status of a state public and commercial enterprise. The second floor of the castle now houses the department of the Hunting and Nature Museum.
Official site
Windsor Castle, UK (11th century)
Located on a hill in the Thames Valley, Windsor Castle has been a symbol of the monarchy for over 900 years. In different centuries, the appearance of the castle changed in accordance with the capabilities of the ruling monarchs. It acquired its modern look as a result of reconstruction after a fire in 1992. The castle covers 52,609 square meters and combines the features of a fortress, a palace and a small town.
Today, the palace is owned on behalf of the nation by the Occupied Royal Palaces Estate (residential royal palaces), consumer services are provided by the Royal Household Department. Windsor Castle is the largest residential castle in the world (about 500 people live and work in it). Elizabeth II spends a month in the castle in the spring and a week in June to participate in the traditional ceremonies associated with the Order of the Garter. About a million tourists visit the castle every year.
Official site
Corvin Castle, Romania (XIV century)
The ancestral home of the Hunyadi feudal house in the south of Transylvania, in the modern Romanian city of Hunedoara. Initially, the fortress was oval in shape, and the only defensive tower was located in the northern wing, while with south side it was covered by a stone wall.
In 1441-1446, under the governor Janos Hunyadi, seven towers were built, and in 1446-1453. laid the chapel, built the main halls and the southern wing with utility rooms. As a result, the appearance of the castle combines elements of late Gothic and early Renaissance.
In 1974, the castle was opened to visitors as a museum. Tourists are taken to the castle along the gigantic bridge, they are shown a vast hall for knights' feasts and two towers, one of which bears the name of the monk John Capistranus, and the second - the romantic name "Do not be afraid".
They also say that it was in this castle that Hunyadi kept Dracula, deposed from the throne, Vlad Tepes for 7 years.
Official site
Liechtenstein Castle, Austria (XII century)
One of the most architecturally unusual castles (German - Burg Liechtenstein) is located at the edge of the Vienna Woods. The castle was built in the XII century, but was destroyed twice by the Ottomans in 1529 and 1683. In 1884 the castle was restored. The castle suffered another damage during the Second World War. Finally, in the 1950s, the castle was restored by the forces of the townspeople. Since 2007, the castle, like more than 800 years ago, has been run by the relatives of its founders - the princely family of Liechtenstein.
The modern popularity of Liechtenstein Castle is associated with the Johann Nestroy Theater Festival held here in the summer. The castle is open to visitors.
Official site
Chillon Castle (French Château de Chillon) is located near Lake Geneva, 3 km from the city of Montreux, and is a complex of 25 elements of different eras of construction.The peculiarities of the location and construction allowed the owners of the castle to fully control the strategically important road that ran between the lake and the mountains. For a certain period of time, the road to the Saint Bernard Pass served as the only transport route from Northern Europe to the South. The depth of the lake provided safety: an attack from this side was simply impossible. The stone wall of the castle, facing the road, is fortified with three towers. The opposite side of the castle is residential.
Like most castles, Chillon Castle also served as a prison. Louis the Pious kept the abbot Vala of Corvey in prison here. In the middle of the XIV century, during the plague epidemic, Jews were kept and tortured in the castle, who were accused of poisoning water sources.
The Chillon Castle is the setting for George Byron's poem The Prisoner of Chillon. The historical basis for the poem was the imprisonment in the castle by order of Charles III of Savoy François Bonivard in 1530-1536. The image of the castle was romanticized in their works by Jean-Jacques Rousseau, Percy Shelley, Victor Hugo and Alexandre Dumas.
Official site
Hohenzollern Castle, Germany (XIII century)
Hohenzollern Castle (German: Burg Hohenzollern) is located in Baden-Württemberg, 50 km south of Stuttgart, on the top of the Hohenzollern mountain at an altitude of 855 meters. Over the years of its existence, the castle has undergone several destruction.
Some of the most famous relics kept in the museum are the crown of the Prussian kings and the uniform that belonged to Frederick the Great. From 1952 to 1991, the remains of Frederick I and Frederick the Great were buried in the castle museum. After the reunification of East and West Germany in 1991, the ashes of the Prussian kings were returned to Potsdam.
Currently, the castle is 2/3 owned by the Brandenburg-Prussian line of the Hohenzollerns and 1/3 by the Swabian-Catholic line. About 300 thousand tourists visit it annually.
Official site
Walsen Castle, Belgium (XI century)
The castles that have survived to our times are attractive and interesting, like memories of the past past of our ancestors. They remind us of fateful historical events, mysterious legends and beautiful romantic stories. Of all the variety and splendor of castles on the planet, it is difficult to choose only 10 of the most beautiful ones, but we tried our best. So, the most beautiful castles in the world:
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10Mont Saint-Michel, France
One of the most famous landmarks in France, included in the list world heritage UNESCO is considered the small island of Saint Michel. The abbey of the same name and located on the island was built in the form of medieval castle... Its two large towers are designed to protect the entrance. This sanctuary is also known as a symbol of the landing of the Allied troops in Normandy during the Second World War.
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9Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany
The Romanesque Renaissance castle was built in the 19th century on a steep hill above the small village of Hohenschwangau in southwestern Bavaria. The castle is a tribute to Ludwig II of Bavaria, Richard Wagner. More than 1.3 million tourists visit this attraction every year. The castle has been featured in several films and has become a source of inspiration for the writers of Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland.
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8Hohensalzburg, Austria
It is considered one of the largest medieval castles in all of Europe. Hohensalzburg stands on a small hill 506 m high in Salzburg, Austria. At the end of the 19th century, this beautiful castle was restored and after that became the main mecca for tourists in Salzburg, along with the Salzburg funicular, which was opened in 1892 and connects the city and the fortress mountain. Today Hohensalzburg is one of the best preserved castles.
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7Conwy, Wales
UNESCO considers Konuy to be one of the "finest examples of European military architecture from the late 12th to early 14th centuries" and is classified by this organization as a World Heritage Site. Medieval fortress built by Edward I during the conquest of Wales. Conwy played an important role in several wars, and in 1399 became a temporary home for Richard II.
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6Prague Castle, Czech Republic
According to the Guinness Book of Records, Prague Castle is the largest of the oldest castles in the world. Its history dates back to the 9th century, and now it is official residence Czech President. Prague Castle was the center of power for the kings of Bohemia, the emperors of the Holy Roman Empire and the presidents of Czechoslovakia. In a special Crown Comoros in one of the cathedrals inside the castle, Czech coronation regalia are kept.
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5Bran, Romania
Bran Castle, which is located in Romania near the city of Brasov, is national monument fanned by the world famous legend of Dracula. In fact, it is the home of the main character in Bram Stoker's novel Dracula. This castle is currently open to tourists as a museum, displaying paintings and furniture from the collection of Queen Mary. Tourists can inspect the interior individually or together with an excursion.
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4Osaka castle, Japan
Osaka Castle can be called one of the most famous Japanese landmarks. Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who built the castle, wanted it to become the center of a unified Japan under the rule of Toyotomi. However, after his death, the troops of the Tokugawa shogun attacked the castle and destroyed the Toyotomi dynasty in 1615. Oskai Castle was rebuilt by Hidetado Tokugawa in the 1620s, and its main tower was struck by lightning in 1665 and burned down. It was renovated much later, in 1931.
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The Neo-Renaissance Peles Castle was built between 1873 and 1914. Located in Carpathian mountains, near Sinai in Romania on the existing medieval route between Transylvania and Wallachia. It was erected by order of Charles I, whose inauguration took place in 1883. Now it is one of the most visited attractions in Romania.
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2Versailles, France
The Versailles Palace is located in a prosperous suburb of Paris, 20 kilometers southwest of the capital. The royal court, located at Versailles, has been the center of all political power in France since 1682, when the king Louis XIV came here from Paris, while the royal family was forced to travel to Paris in October 1789 after the outbreak of the French Revolution. Versailles is known to the whole world not only for its beauty, but also historical significance, being a symbol of the absolute monarchy of pre-revolutionary France.
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1Chillon Castle, Switzerland
Chateau de Chillon (Chillon Castle) is an island castle located on the shores of Lake Geneva. It is located in the eastern part of the lake on a cliff between Montreux and Villeneuve, overlooking the alpine valley of the Rhone. Thus, the landscape surrounding the castle is truly extraordinary beautiful, which makes the Château de Chillon one of the most visited castles in Switzerland and Europe.
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Conclusion
The list of the most beautiful castles in the world has come to an end. Yes, this is only a small part of those castles that could be on this list, but we had to choose, and this choice was not easy. These were The most beautiful castles in the world. TOP 10... Thank you for the attention.
