| Location | Hohenschwangau, Southwest Bavaria, Germany (Google Map Location) |
| Open for Visitors | Yes |
| Owned by | Bavarian Palace Department |
| Rooms Available | No |
Neuschwanstein castle is a fairytale castle located in the green region of Allgau in Bavaria, Germany. It is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Germany. It was initially called New Hohenschwangau castle and was meant to be the remarkable recreation of Hohenschwangau castle, where King Ludwig II spent his childhood. Its construction began in 1868, and was used as the king’s private residence until he died in 1886. Shortly, it was opened to the public.
Neuschwanstein Castle History
In 1866, Ludwig king put his entire focus on creating overtly extravagant palaces to become an all-powerful ruler in his alternative kingdom. Neuschwanstein castle was part of this plan. It was inspired by Ludwig’s desire to live in an authentic style of ‘Old German Knights’ castle. Ludwig king wanted to make this castle his private sanctuary, so he built it away from the public eye in a remote mountain setting.
In 1886, Ludwig II died, but the castle wasn’t completed at this point. Seven weeks later, it was opened to the public. From then to 1914, the castle became the most significant income source of the Bavarian royal family. Some new rooms and court buildings left incomplete in the 1880s were reconstructed. It helped the family to offer a better experience to visitors. Now, Neuschwanstein castle gets over one million visitors each year.
Neuschwanstein Castle Architecture
Neuschwanstein castle is known for its stylish Romanesque Revival architecture. King Ludwig II’s influence is throughout the castle. Eduard Riedel, the architect of the castle, combined several decorating ideas in the castle’s design. It contained modern features for the time, including tight-fitted windows designed with steel and advanced kitchen designs. It is a phenomenal site, with majestic exteriors and unwatched interiors.
This castle is not a copy of any medieval castle; it has the perfect example of historicism combined with different decorative elements. It is counted as one of the most photographed buildings in the World.
Inside Neuschwanstein Castle
The interiors of Neuschwanstein castle are decorated with picture cycles, reflecting Ludwig’s personality. You will notice the pictures of sagas of Tristian and Isolde on the walls of a bedroom, Lohengrin pictures in the Salon, and Parzifal pictures in the Singer’s hall. The designs of Singer’s hall and the festival hall of the castle are inspired by Wartburg castle. Ludwig’s passion for medieval kingship influences many rooms inside the castle, including Throne Hall.
There are only 14 finished rooms in the Neuschwanstein castle that visitors can explore during their visit. Each room has its own story to tell. It also offers a guided interiors tour, giving access to Singer’s hall, cave-like grotto, and king’s bedroom.
Neuschwanstein Castle Tickets
Neuschwanstein castle tickets cost €15 for adults. It includes a guided tour. Tickets for visitors under 18 years of age are free. Also, tickets are available at reduced entry prices for students, large groups, and senior citizens.
Visitors can purchase their tickets at the Ticket Center or online. Booking in advance can be very helpful during peak season and holidays.
Note: Visitors can also choose the Guided tour of the castle, which is available in English and German. They can also take advantage of an audio tour available in 17 languages.
Neuschwanstein Castle Facts
- Neuschwanstein castle was the inspiration for Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle.
- This castle includes no guest rooms. King Ludwig wanted to make this castle his private palace.
- In 1875, Mr Herold, the foreman of this palace who laid the foundation of the construction in 1869, took his own life because of a mental breakdown. It was so shocking to locals that they started calling it ‘The Curse of Neuschwanstein Castle.’
- The castle gets more than 6,000 visitors per day during peak season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Neuschwanstein Castle the Disney castle?
No, Neuschwanstein castle is not a Disney castle. However, it is the inspiration for Disney’s Sleeping Beauty castle and Cinderella castle.
Why is the Neuschwanstein Castle so famous?
Neuschwanstein castle is also known as the castle of Paradox. It is famous for its romanticised medieval design and the newest technological comforts. This castle is built above the Hohenschwangau village on a rugged hill, which makes its exterior more beautiful. Its fairytale introverted design has made it very famous.
If you liked reading about Fairytale Neuschwanstein Castle, you should definitely check our articles on Löwenburg Castle and Mespelbrunn Castle!
Have you visited this castle before? If yes, why not share some beautiful pictures with us!
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Nitesh Kucchal
Nitesh Kuchhal, an IIM Calcutta graduate, is more than an educator—he's a mentor. With a passion for leadership and entrepreneurship, and travel. He has explored over 20 countries. Beyond teaching, he dives into psychology and discusses social issues. Though he is not a history expert, he enjoys learning about it through books, adding a historical touch to his many interests.
