As a general rule castles are great. They tend to be huge structures that have stood the test of time and once housed some of the most important people in the world. They also tend to be quite beautiful. Here are some of the most beautiful castles in the world.
1. Mon Saint-Micheal in Normandy, France
Technically it's an island commune. No big deal.
2. The Hohenzollern Castle in Hohenzollern, Germany
This is actually the third castle to be built on that particular spot. The first was probably built before 1061, as that is the earliest documented reference that can be found.
3. Windsor Castle in Windsor, England
Not only does this castle have a rich and long history that rivals many others, it is the current residence of the Queen of England.
4. Hohenwerfen Castle in Werfen, Austria
This castle, as many others, doubles as a fortress and has undergone a countless number of sieges over the years. Many notable medieval rulers have been imprisoned there.
5. Glamis Castle Near Glamis in Angus, Scotland
Home to the Countess of Strathmore and Kinghorne. It is open to the public but be warned it is considered to be one of the most haunted castles in Scotland.
6. Neuschwanstein Castle Near Fussen, Bavaria, Germany
Built in the 19th century for Kind Ludwig II.
7. Hampton Court Palace in the borough of Richmond on the Thames, London, England
King Henry VIII (yes the one with all the wives) used this as one of his primary residences. And you thought the Hamptons were nice.
8. The Palace of Pena Sintra in Portugal
King Ferdinand helped design this castle and part of its unique qualities is owed to the Moorish influences present in Portugal when it was being built.
9. The Eltz Castle in Wierschem, Germany
For 850 years this castle has remained in the possession of the original family and has never been destroyed. It's not going anywhere, folks.
10. The Chateau de Chambord Chambord in France
King Francois I, ordered this castle to be built in 1519. He would actually live there for only weeks at a time and then leave it empty of even furniture when he vacated it.
11. Prague Castle Prague in Czech Republic
Prague Castle was probably founded in 880 and even today it is the residence of the President of the Czech Republic. Also, according to the Guinness Book of World records, it is the largest coherent castle complex in the world.
12. The Castle in Love with the Wind in Ravadinovo, Bulgaria
Unlike most of the others on this list, this castle was built quite recently. In 1996 the project was started and has won several awards for its architecture. Those who visit it say it is like a fairytale.
13. Palace of Versailles in Versailles, France
What was once used as a hunting lodge by the French nobility was transformed by King Louis XIV into one of the most famous structures in the world. Talk about a make over.
So there you have it. Thirteen of the worlds most beautiful castles. If you ever plan on traveling to any of these destinations be sure to check them out, or any other castles in the area.
Have fun storming those castles!
