On the Pöllat cliffs in Schwangau, the world famous royal palace of Neuschwanstein towers over the fabulous panorama of the Alps: Meadows and forests crisscrossed by countless hiking and cycle tracks surround the dream of the king who was afraid of people, immortalized in stone. Since his death in 1886 more than 50 million people have visited the castle which is today the most visited castle in Europe and a world cultural heritage site. The uniquely idyllic situation of Neuschwanstein - it was chosen as the only German finalist in the final round of the worldwide poll for the "New 7 Wonders" - does however also have its dangers: the steep cliff faces have to be regularly made secure and the foundations checked.

Ludwig II announced the building of the "New Hohenschwangau Castle" - it was not called Neuschwanstein until after Ludwig's death - in a letter to Richard Wagner. He also dedicated the palace to Richard Wagner whom the sensitive king idolized with all his heart. It was Ludwig's aim to create a true to style, ideal medieval castle: in 1869 the foundation stone was laid, in 1884 Ludwig was finally able to move into his retreat.

 

Romanesque, Gothic and technical progress

Enchanting turrets, inviting castle terraces, secret courtyards and decorated staircases await the visitor. The murals have the contents of Richard Wagner's operas as their subjects: Tales of love, guilt, repentance and redemption are depicted in detail. Kings and knights, poets and lovers cavort over the walls of the magnificent rooms. The Minstrel's Hall and the Throne Room are particularly worth seeing. 

 

Ludwig and his builders succeeded in wrapping the most up-to-date technology and highest degree of comfort in medieval dress: A hot air central heating system provided cosy warmth in the royal dwelling. There was running, even hot and cold water. Automatic flushing provided more hygiene in the royal toilets. There were even said to be also telephones and lifts.

Our particular visitor tips:

The Castle concerts

Lovers of classical music can look forward to a varied and artistically outstanding programme presented in the Minstrel's Hall of Neuschwanstein castle: Listen to the music and at the same time gaze at the unique landscape surrounding the castle.