For the Love of Castles: Neuschwanstein
When a castle (or palace) is involved, there cannot be a better time or place to meet one’s own prince charming. Welcome to my newest column on castles and the history surrounding them. On today’s journey, we travel to Germany.
As a prior expat, living abroad in Munich, Germany, one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever visited was Neuschwanstein, better known as the Cinderella Castle. Built by Ludwig II of Bavaria as a respite, Neuschwanstein is a must-see tourist destination in Bavaria Germany, and it receives 1.4 million visitors per year. Located in the village of Hohenschwangau in the Alpine foothills, the picturesque views combined with the castle’s sheer beauty make this castle the perfect location and setting for any romance novel.
(Neuschwanstein Castle, Schwangau, Bavaria, Germany. Creative Commons, Photo courtesy of Anisha Sreddy)
And in this contemporary period, couples from across the world converge at the gates for a chance at visiting this real-life fairy tale setting.
I could almost imagine walking along the halls and living in a Jude Deveraux historical romance. The interior resembles Versaille, but on a smaller scale. One step into the inner sanctum and looking at the intricate paintings, ornate hallways, gold leaf, antique mirrors and even the remarkable soaking tub, I couldn’t help my unabashed oohing and ahhing. It wasn’t difficult to imagine grand balls, beautiful gowns and nights filled with dancing, delight and the chance for romance.
Yet, although he left breathtaking beauty behind, the story of Ludwig II of Bavaria is a tragic one. As stated on the official site: „The „ideal monarchical poetic solitude“ which the king chose for himself was not in the long run compatible with his duties as a head of state. The new settings he was constantly devising for himself were equally beyond the private means of a king. Ludwig failed through his desire to anchor his illusions and dreams in reality.“
Sadly, due to the „The king’s refusal to react rationally led the government to declare him insane and depose him in 1886 – a procedure not provided for in the Bavarian constitution. Ludwig II was interned in Berg Palace. The next day he died in mysterious circumstances in Lake Starnberg, together with the psychiatrist who had certified him as insane.“
The tale of Ludwig’s murder and the intrigue surrounding his death are also highlights of the tour. Even then I wondered about how he could drown in ankle deep water. A king killed by his desire for beauty and with an expensive taste to potentially bankrupt the state, surely several had motive… what a great mystery to solve!
Have you ever been to Neuschwanstein or are you now putting it on your list of must-see destinations?
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