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Neuschwanstein Castle

© Colleen Thomas Ryor

Neuschwanstein Castle, located in Bavaria near the German town of Füssen, is one of the most famous and beautiful castles in the world. King Ludwig II, called crazy by many, moved away from Munich because he preferred to live considerably closer to the mountains. Ludwig, who was friends with Richard Wagner, was heavily influenced by the composer's work. In a letter to Wagner, the king wrote:

I intend to rebuild the old ruined castle of Hohenschwangau next to the Poellat-gorge. They style will be that of the original German knight's castles. The location is one of the most beautiful to be found: Holy and unapproachable, a worthy temple for our godly friend, who has bestowed upon mankind unique salvation and true blessing. It will remind you of the Tannhäuser saga (Singer's Hall with view of the castle in the background) and the Lohengrin saga (courtyard with open passage and path to the chapel). This castle shall be more splendid and habitable than the lower castle of Hohenschwangau, which every year is desecrated by the prose of my mother. The violated Gods cannot but seek revenge; they will stay with us way up here, breathing the air of heaven.

Neuschwanstein literaly means "new swan stone." The castle was built in the tradition of the castles of German knights. Today the castle will instantly remind visitors who have previously been to Disney World of the Sleeping Beauty Castle in Florida.

This site is a must-see if you are lucky enough to be in Bavaria any time of the year.

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