Neuschwanstein Castle is a 19th-century Romanesque Revival palace on a rugged hill above the village of Hohenschwangau near Füssen in southwest Bavaria, Germany. The palace was commissioned by King Ludwig II of Bavaria as a retreat and as a homage to Richard Wagner, the King’s inspiring muse. Although public photography is not allowed inside the castle, it has inspired the creation of Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe.
History
Neuschwanstein Castle was originally built as a refuge for the reclusive King Ludwig II. The King had always been interested in the Middle Ages and the legendary King Arthur and wanted a place to escape from the hustle and bustle of the Bavarian court. He chose a site high in the Bavarian Alps, overlooking the village of Hohenschwangau, and began construction in 1869.
The castle was designed by Eduard Riedel, a theatrical set designer, and was built in the Romanesque Revival style. The King was heavily involved in the design and construction of the castle, and many of the features he chose were inspired by Wagner’s operas. The castle was finally completed in 1892, shortly before Ludwig’s death.
Disney Influence
The castle has been a major source of inspiration for Disney, who modeled its iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle after Neuschwanstein. When Walt Disney visited Germany in the 1950s, he was captivated by the castle and decided to use it as the basis for the castle in his animated movie Sleeping Beauty. The castle can also be seen in other Disney films, such as Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and The Great Mouse Detective.
Tourism
Today, Neuschwanstein Castle is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Europe. More than 1.4 million people visit the castle every year. Visitors can take guided tours of the castle, which includes the King’s bedroom, the throne room, the Singers’ Hall, and the courtyard.
Photography
Photography is not allowed inside the castle, but visitors can take pictures from the outside. The most iconic view of the castle is from the Marienbrücke bridge, which is a few hundred feet below the castle.
Conclusion
Neuschwanstein Castle is an iconic example of 19th-century Romantic architecture and is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Europe. The castle has also been an inspiration for Disney, who used it as the basis for the Sleeping Beauty Castle. Visitors can take guided tours of the castle and take pictures from the outside, but photography is not allowed inside.