A walk through the forest, a few turns on winding pathways, and there, there, you happen upon a feast for the eyes and the imagination, set in the ever-evolving and growing landscape, lies an enduring, beautiful, and fanciful piece of history . . .
And perhaps those who created these wondrous structures — those who spent hours upon hours, weeks, and years, even, setting the stones in place, painting the interior walls and ceilings by hand, and furnishing each space — would they have known all those years ago, the endless appreciation their vision and great works would inspire, even today?
One might close her eyes and imagine the hundreds of gowns, thousands of gowns, that would have skimmed the stone floors — silks, velvets, lace — arm in arm, down corridors and into sitting rooms . . .
. . . the conversations that might have taken place by flickering and golden candle light, and over extravagantly delicious feasts, of towers tall enough to see over the gardens, over the lands, and far, far beyond, and walks around the garden, stolen kisses and sweet embraces.
Above & below, the gardens and grounds at Sanssouci Palace
The wonder of it all — not having cable or electricity at a whim — seems something of the past, distantly remembered, yet wrapped within a notion of romance and a way of life that once told an intriguing story . . .
. . . and so, today, we study the lives of those who designed, built and lived within the stone walls that seem strong enough to battle the weather of eternity . . .
We see their faces, captured in paintings, and told in stories. And we can not help but wonder if it is the sheer scale of the castle — the word that magnifies grace and grandeur — or are we intrigued most with the relevance in history, and how these palaces helped shape history?
And as long as libraries are lined with books of such places, and sites across the globe celebrate them, they will always remain alive.
Above, Sanssouci Palace
But most alive to us, perhaps, is the feeling of being overcome with history and romance, while standing beneath the breathtaking columns, enthralled by the enormity and sheer architectural extravagance that is a castle . . .
And for those who enjoy the mysterious fables, soaring ceilings of gilding and of gold, and exquisite works of art, you will certainly fall for this week’s destination — for this week, we share a selection of some of the most magnificent castles of Germany . . .
Above, Sanssouci Palace
{a note on germany’s many, many castles}
Compare with many other countries across the globe, Germany contains an inordinate number of castles within its borders; an overwhelming amount of over 25,000 recognizable castles exist today within the country — many of which are open to the public, and have incorporated restaurants and museums into their spaces.
This fact brings us back to the Middle ages, when Germany was once divided into several small, competitive feudal states and principalities. Such a fact led many to construct secure fortresses throughout the country, although some were created, years later, for pleasure alone.
* a lesson in german terminology : there are burgs — meaning fortresses or castles, & schlosses, meaning castles or palaces
Neuschwanstein Castle, perhaps one of the most, [if not the most], overwhelmingly beautiful castles that can be seen in the entire world. You may very well recognize it, as the castle was inspiration for Disneyland’s Sleeping Beauty Castle. The palace is set in the southwest of Bavaria, up high on a rugged hill, against a glorious backdrop of majestic mountain scenery. Neuschwanstein’s construction was led by King Ludwig II, and was completed in the late 1800’s in a Romanesque Revival style. The castle was meant as a private retreat for the king, and upon his death, was opened to the public. Today, the castle invites approximately 1.3 million people each year to tour.
Hidden within a rather dense forest in the western part of Germany lies the medievel Eltz Castle. Rather rare, this castle remains in the ownership of the original family that resided there in the 12th century. Though perhaps not as popular as some as a tourist destination, its museum — filled with original furniture, art, knights’ armour, and a treasure vault — are wonderfully fascinating and a sight to be seen. Additionally, the Palace of Bürresheim, the Castle of Eltz and the Castle of Lissingen are the only castles on the left bank of the Rhine in Rhineland-Palatinate which have never been destroyed.
Completed in 1857, under the supervision of Friedrich Franz II, this tremendous castle is set on a small island in Lake Schwerin. One of Europe’s paramount examples of historicist architecture. Indeed, this five-wing castle boasts many splendours to take in — from the golden gilding and exquisite carvings to the the dining room — complete with laborious, intricate panelling and the round tower room, designed as a garden salon of sort. Beyond a tour, visitors may also enjoy a concert, and may wish to tour the beautiful baroque gardens surrounding the castle — certainly a lovely site from every angle.
Lichtenstein Castle is situated high on a cliff near Honau in the Swabian Alb, Baden-Württemberg. According to history, since the 1200’s [or so] there has been a castle that existed on the property; however, it was tragically destroyed twice, but, thankfully, was re-built to its glorious state. The castle is designed in a Neo-Gothic design by architect Carl Alexander Heideloff. And to assist in preserving history, today, the castle is still owned by the Dukes of Urach, and happily opens its doors to visitors. Visitors will enjoy bits and pieces of history, and lovely views of the Echaz Valley.
The Palace of Heidelberg lies in the southwest of Germany; an intriguing destination featuring some of the greatest ruins of the once noble Castle of Heidelberg, unlike so many of the castles that have been maintained and preserved to near perfection, this site is one to appreciate in a different manner: partly rebuilt since its demolition in the 17th and 18th centuries, this structure has seen lightning bolts, water and fire damage over the years. However, visitors will appreciate the unique architecture, impressive cellar, gardens, and many other spectacular details of the castle.
An incredibly pretty castle close to Berlin, designed in the Frederician Rococo style, and painted in the loveliest [and memorable] yellow, adorned with delicate and ornate details. The former summer palace of Frederick the Great, King of Prussia, Sanssouci has been placed alongside the great Versailles for its splendour and grandeur. And while most may be captivated by its architecture, the grounds are equally captivating, for they are sprinkled with follies and temples and other such wonders. Vast and enchanting — this castle is not to be missed while visiting Germany!
{a few other favorites to visit while touring . . . }
While visiting and wandering from forests and waterside, through gardens and castles, we suggest bundling in rich and lovely layers — whether it be lacy shirts, cashmere and cozy cream coats tied off with a scarf, or maybe dramatic florals paired with vibrant coats, and toes, bundled in extra warm boots . . .
And do be forewarned — Germany in the winter months is rather brisk [down to -10 degrees] — but perhaps the loveliest sight, seeing a castle perched atop a hill, dusted in the softest shade of alabaster white snow might make it all worth while . . .
