The world is dotted with castles that brim with history and radiate power. These monumental marvels are a perfect inspiration for the itinerary of any epic journey. So let’s check them out for some inspiration for your next trip.

1. Neuschwanstein Castle – Germany

©Provided by Showbizz Daily (English)
Nestled in idyllic Bavaria, the Neuschwanstein Castle stands out as Germany’s most famous. It’s a grand masterpiece erected in 1869 by King Ludwig II of Bavaria. Its architecture, particularly its towers, sparked Walt Disney’s imagination as he designed Sleeping Beauty’s Castle. Years later, it would also inspire the creators of the hit series ‘Game of Thrones.’

2. Chenonceau Castle – France

A perfect blend of elegance and history, Chenonceau Castle is among the most beautiful and popular in the Loire Valley, France. Its ownership has been passed down through several women, including Catherine de Medici and Diane de Poitiers, which earned it the moniker “Castle of the Ladies.”

3. Dunrobin Castle – Scotland

Dunrobin Castle is privately owned by the Countess of Sutherland. It stands majestically in the mountainous Highlands region of Scotland. This monument was built in the medieval times and was later expanded in 1845 by Charles Barry, the architect behind the Palace of Westminster in London.

4. Hohenzollern Castle – Germany

This splendid neo-gothic structure sits atop Mount Hohenzollern, approximately 50 kilometers (31 miles) from Stuttgart, Germany. As one of the most visited castles in the country, its awe-inspiring presence is best described by one word: majestic.

5. Scaligero Castle – Italy

Nestled in Brescia, Lombardy, stands the stalwart Scaligero Castle, marking the gateway to resort town of Sirmione. Built in the 14th century, this medieval fortress was erected to safeguard the village and its harbor. Its angular towers, towering walls, inner courtyards, and collection of medieval stones endow it with an exceptional charm.

6. Palace of Versailles – France

This jewel of the Paris region encapsulates a significant chunk of French history. Known as both a palace and a castle, Versailles symbolizes absolute power, having been the royal residence of Louis XIV, Louis XV, and Louis XVI. Its gardens, masterfully designed by André Le Nôtre, stand as a true masterpiece.

7. Red Fort – India

This grand palace in Delhi, India is the epitome of Mughal architectural beauty. Constructed in 1638 by Shah Jahan, its vast size, striking red sandstone, and intricate designs symbolize India’s historical grandeur.

8. Pena Palace – Portugal

This spectacular romantic and historical castle sits in Sintra, near Lisbon. Its vibrant yellow and red hues give the Pena Palace with a unique charm. Its construction is fairly recent, dating back to the mid-19th century. It belonged to King Fernando II of Portugal. After the proclamation of the Republic in 1910, the palace became state property and is now open to visitors.

9. Ashford Castle – Ireland

The medieval Ashford Castle, built near the village of Cong, has now transformed into a five-star hotel. It also served as a filming location for the series ‘Reign’. Even so, it remains open for tourist visits.

10. Vajdahunyad Castle – Hungary

Built in 1896 to commemorate Hungary’s millennium, the Vajdahunyad Castle initially served a temporary exhibit. However, its immense popularity prompted its establishment as a permanent fixture. The castle, found on Széchenyi Island in Budapest, features architecture inspired by the Hunyad Castle, from which it gets its Hungarian name.

11. Chambord Castle – France

Chambord Castle is the largest castle of the Loire Valley. King Francis I of France began its construction in 1519, but he only lived there for 42 days throughout his lengthy 32-year reign. Subsequently, many European monarchs visited this castle.

12. Bodiam Castle – United Kingdom

This fortified 14th-century structure is situated near Robertsbridge in Sussex. Constructed in 1385 by Sir Edward Dallyngrigge, a former knight of Edward III, it was apparently built at the request of Richard II to defend the area against the French. Lord Curzon later restored the castle and bequeathed it to the National Trust in September 1926.

13. Windsor Castle – United Kingdom

Windsor Castle is today a palace and residence of the British Royal Family. Located in the county of Berkshire, it was built in 1070 and has three walls and a keep. It covers more than five hectares ( 12 acres) and is one of the most impressive monuments in the British Isles.

14. Haar Castle – The Netherlands

Our journey ends in the Dutch state of Utrecht, where Haar Castle is located. Its origins date back to the late 14th century but the buildings we can see today are much more recent, built between 1892 and 1907. A beautiful building castle, like the others, transports us to another era with a very special mystique.

15. Albrechtsburg Castle – Germany

This late Gothic style castle was originally built in the 10th century but was reconstructed, to look as it does today, between the years 1471 and 1485. It’s located in the center of the city of Meissen, Saxony and has an adjacent also Gothic cathedral that blends in with the ensemble.

You may also wish to read MORE Extra blogs Here

Like and follow us on Facebook at Peteroz Blog | Facebook