How To Visit Neuschwanstein Castle
Neuschwanstein Castle: A Fairytale in Real Life.
“This castle is neither an old ruin nor a modern palace, for it represents a kind of poetry that only the people and artists of our time can create.”
Perched atop a rugged hill in the Bavarian Alps, Neuschwanstein Castle has become an iconic symbol of fairytale castles and the imagination. Its picturesque setting and elaborate design have been immortalized in numerous works of art, including Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty castle. But beyond its enchanting appearance, Neuschwanstein Castle also has a fascinating history that reflects the life and personality of its creator, King Ludwig II of Bavaria
Construction and Design
The construction of Neuschwanstein Castle began in 1869 under the direction of King Ludwig II. Inspired by the romantic operas and legends of his time, the king envisioned a grandiose castle that would serve as his personal refuge from reality. He employed theatre set designers and other artists to bring his vision to life, resulting in a unique blend of architectural styles that has become known as “fantasy architecture.”
The castle’s design incorporates elements from medieval German castles, as well as Byzantine and Romanesque influences. Its interiors are lavishly decorated with intricate wood carvings, murals, and elaborate furniture. The most famous room in the castle is the Throne Room, which is adorned with dazzling gold and precious gems.
A Tragic End
Unfortunately, King Ludwig II’s dream of Neuschwanstein Castle was short-lived. Due to his extravagant spending on the castle and other projects, he was declared mentally unfit to rule by a council of ministers in 1886. He died mysteriously soon after, drowning in a nearby lake under suspicious circumstances. At the time of his death, Neuschwanstein Castle was still incomplete, with only 14 of its planned 200 rooms finished.
How To Plan Your Trip
- Buy your tickets in advance HERE
- Parking is 10 Euro CASH ONLY
- The carriage ride to the top of the castle is 8.00 Euros up and 4.00 Euros down.
- Try to avoid the weekends.
- Bring cash for a snack in town; most snack hunts only take cash.
- Be ready to walk because you will walk around the castle a lot.
- Wear comfortable shoes.
- No video or pictures is allowed in the castle. (The state of Bavaria has the inside of the three castles copyrighted which is why pictures are not allowed inside of Ludwig’s three castles.)