As soon I saw it’s photo I adored it; also known as “the fairytale castle”, Neuschwannstein is considered to be the most beautiful castle in Germany, and one of the most beautiful in the world. It is located in the state of Bavaria, Germany.
– Started in 1868 & completed in 1892.
– It is one of the most photographed buildings in the world.
– Neuschwannstein castle was one of the 13 finalists for the New Seven Wonders of the World competition.
– Many movies are filmed here such as ‘Chitty Chitty Bang Bang’ and ‘The Wonderful World of the Brothers Grimm’.
– Design of Sleeping Beauty Palace in Disneyland is also inspired by this castle.
– More than 1.3 million people visit it annually.
I came across its photo once and was immediately hooked to its magical beauty. I will visit you one day; I promised to this magical splendor. Few years passed, we decided to visit Germany, all of us, kids including; the castle was on my list. I am talking about 2003.
Fussen
We boarded a train from Munich to Fussen. It was a memorable 75 miles journey through one of world’s most elegant forests of Bavaria. Train was rushing through long stretches of red poppy and yellow mustard flowers – a delight for the eyes.
Fussen is a small retreat / hill station town. People come here to visit Neuschwannstein castle. The castle is built on a hill-top nearby. We strolled in the peaceful Fussen in the evening. Castle visit was scheduled for the next day. A small journey by train and then a small walk landed us in front of this mystic castle.
The Mad King Ludwig II
This amazing architectural achievement was commissioned by King Ludwig II of Bavaria in 1868, later known as Ludwig the Mad. Why? Such a masterpiece can only be ordered a madman!
He was only 18 when his father passed away, making him the King of Bavaria; the King Ludwig II. He was a man who lived in a world of his own; a world far away from realities, full of fantasy. Soon after becoming King, Ludwig lost ruling powers as Bavaria was taken over by Prussia. He distanced himself from state affairs and started wandering in the wild wilderness. One year later, he began planning for a kingdom and castle of his own, where he could be a real king once again.
King Orders Castle
He ordered the building of a perfect castle. Soon the castle foundations were laid. As the building progressed, Ludwig spent less time in Munich looking after the stately affairs and more time building the castle. He would change the design arbitrarily at his will, such as a small audience room was converted into a big Throne room.
Wagner Opera Affair
Neuschwannstein means New Swan Stone. This name is inspired after an opera character written by Richard Wagner. Ludwig was a big fan of Richard Wagner; many rooms in the castle are inspired by Wagner but he never ever visited the castle.
Reality Strikes – Ludwig Goes ‘Mad’
Ludwig’s behavior was not acceptable as a head of state. He spent so much money on the Castle that finances ran dry; banks starting knocking on his door (yes, these damn banks were there at that time too). Government declared him instance and confined him in Berg Palace. Ludwg II was found dead the next day (1986). He mysteriously drowned in the lake Stern along his physician who declared him insane.
My kids kept asking me for days, what happened to the Mad King? Why did he jump into the lake? And I had no answer.
Castle Completes but Mad man is Gone
The castle completed in 1892 after 24 years of construction but the mad man behind its construction was no longer there. Mad Ludwig could only sleep 11 nights in the Castle.
lovely looking place isnt it?
Very interesting story, beautiful very scenic but what a waste of money on the Kings part am sure the locals at the time could not have been too impressed if they had any sense!