Castles, fortresses and palaces have been built by people since ancient times. Being built at a time when there was no modern technology, they amaze the imagination with their architectural grandeur. Although these impregnable symbols of the Middle Ages were built as fortifications, this does not prevent them from pleasing the eye with their appearance. And we offer to admire those of them that are considered the most beautiful in Europe.

Neuschwanstein Castle (Germany)

This majestic, romantic castle is considered the most beautiful in the world. And even in the photo you can see that he deserved his title. Built by order of the Bavarian King Ludwig II, during the lifetime of its creators, it became associated with the embodiment of a fairy-tale dream that became a reality.

Eltz Castle (Germany)

A pearl of European architecture, one of the most beautiful castles in Germany and the world. For more than 30 generations it has remained in the possession of the same family and has never been captured or plundered, not even during the great wars and revolutions.

Pierrefonds Castle (France)

Built in the 90s of the XIV century, it became an arena where historical events for Europe unfolded. Partially destroyed by the troops of Cardinal Richelieu, it was restored in the 1880s.

Hohenzollern Castle (Germany)

Stunningly beautiful, this castle seems to have stepped out of the pages of a fantasy novel. The first mention of it is found in documents from 1267, and in our time many interesting events are held here.

Chambord (France)

Built on the orders of Francis I, Chambord Castle was presented to his beloved and soon became one of the recognizable symbols of France. History has not preserved the name of the architect, but it is known for sure that Leonardo da Vinci worked on the project, shortly before his death.

Corvin Castle (Romania)

Rising on a rock near the river, this family fortress of the Hunyadi house changed more than 20 owners in its time. There are legends that Vlad Tepes, known as Dracula, was imprisoned here for 7 years.

Coca Castle (Spain)

A magnificent example of fortification art, built in the 15th century. It is surrounded by double brick walls 2.5 meters wide, and the best architects of Toledo worked on the construction.

Chenonceau (France)

Although it is privately owned, the owners have opened it to the public, which attracts many tourists from all over the world. Due to its characteristic appearance, among the local population it was called the "ladies' castle".

Many of us enjoy history and enjoy watching historical films, whether fiction or documentaries. We want to know how people used to live, what they did, and so on. Particularly interesting is the mysterious era of the Middle Ages, an integral part of which were knights and, of course, castles.

So, we present to your attention one of the most beautiful objects of history - the famous castles of Europe.

1. Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany

Neuschwanstein Castle is located in southernmost Germany, near the border with Austria. The castle itself rises majestically on a green hill, high above the village of Hohenschwangau and Alpsy Lake. Neuschwanstein Castle is one of the many historical landmarks that dot the entire area, but its grandeur and architectural style make it stand out from the crowd. Built at the end of the 19th century, this is one of the most famous European castles. There is something to admire not only from the outside, but also from the inside. Be sure to visit Neuschwanstein during your trip to Germany.

2. Peles Castle, Romania

Peles Castle is nestled in the beautiful green hills of the Carpathians in central Romania. On a trip to the small but picturesque mountain village of Sinaia, you will be captivated by the castle's imposing Neo-Renaissance architecture. Built at the beginning of the 20th century, the castle is now one of the biggest historical landmarks in Romania. Inside, you'll be overwhelmed by the plethora of lavish collections of armor, weapons, artwork, and other interesting items.

3. Brodick Castle, Scotland

Brodick Castle is a real historical gem of Scotland, located on the east coast of the Isle of Arran. The whole area around the castle is covered with a country park, during your scenic walk in the picturesque gardens of the castle you will be amazed by the green trees and meadows. The castle, which was built in the 16th century, enchants with its reddish hues, large windows and mighty towers. Read also about other castles in Scotland in a separate selection.

4. Bran Castle, Romania

Bran Castle is located in the heart of the country and is known for its beautiful location. The structure is hidden in the green mountain hills and picturesque villages, the white colors of the facades against the background of the red colored domes and roofs provide a mystical accent to the whole local atmosphere. Indeed, Bran Castle is filled with mysticism and symbolism, also known as Dracula's Castle. All local legends, one way or another, are connected with Count Dracula.

5. Lincoln Castle, England

Lincoln Castle is located in the heart of the village of Lincoln in England. This 11th century building is definitely worth a visit on your trip to North East England. Lincoln Castle is unique. Within the fortified walls you can meet interesting buildings and courtyard. It is now used as a museum that offers a unique historical experience. Read more about the castles of England in a separate selection on LifeGlobe.

6. Eltz Castle, Germany

Eltz Castle is one of the most picturesque in western Germany. it stands high above a hill, surrounded by the waters of a stream that flows into the neighboring river Moselle. The castle was built in the 12th century, with a distinctive Romanesque architectural style, with lots of baroque and gothic decorations. If you want to fully immerse yourself in the charm of its historical heritage, go inside and explore the interior. There you can find a complex network of rooms that can say a lot more about Eltz. Read also about other castles in Germany in a separate article.

7. Mont-Saint-Michel Castle, France

This is one of the most famous castles in France. Mont Saint Michel is located on a rocky island along the coast of Normandy. The history of the construction of this castle dates back to the 6th century, when it was used mainly for military purposes due to its unique strategic location. The rocky island was connected to the mainland through a tiny and narrow bridge, which was completely flooded due to strong currents. Thus, the fortress was almost inaccessible, but now it is one of the most visited historical sites in France.

8. Marienburg Castle, Poland

Marienburg Castle is one of the largest castles in the world, located along the banks of the Nogat River in Poland. Malbork was built by the Teutons in the early 15th century when it was the world's largest brick castle. The castle impresses with its medieval architecture, dominated by red colors.

9. Spis Castle in Slovakia

In the heart of eastern Slovakia is another imposing addition to the largest and most famous castles Europe. This is the breathtaking Spis Castle, built in the 12th century and famous for its white color, Romanesque architectural style, as well as numerous Gothic elements. As the Spiš Castle is located at an elevation of more than 600 meters, you can enjoy an incredible panoramic view from its top.

10. Palace of Versailles, France

The Château de Versailles impresses with its gigantic area. And even if it’s not quite a castle, it still closes the top ten on our list. Versailles is one of the most famous architectural complexes in France, which is located in southwestern Paris. Among the sights of Paris, this is one of the most visited places.

Castles are a symbol of the Middle Ages; for centuries they have fascinated not only lovers of history and architecture. On no other continent, except Europe, you will find so many beautiful monumental castles that are evidence of bygone, bygone eras. We have prepared a rating of the ten largest castles in Europe that have been admiring, captivating and surprising for centuries.

1. Castle in Malbork

The castle in Malbork is considered by many to be the largest castle not only in Europe, but also in the world. Built of brick, the Gothic castle is located on the right bank of the Nogat, built in the XIII - XV centuries, was the capital of the Teutonic Order and the residence of its masters. Recognized as a historical monument and listed world heritage UNESCO in 1997.

2. Prague Castle in Prague

The impressive size of the castle complex (about 70,000 m2), which from time immemorial was the residence of the kings of the Czech Republic, and since 1918 the President of the Czech Republic. The castle includes many objects, including St. Vitus Cathedral, where the Czech crown jewels are kept.

3. Castle Burghausen

Burghausen Castle is a powerful castle lying above the old town of Burghausen, is the longest building of its type in Europe. Its length is 1043 m. modern look he is obliged to the Wittelsbach family living on its territory in 1393-1505. In subsequent years, it was the property of the city of Burghausen and was used as a military garrison, which led to a significant restructuring of the castle fortifications.

4. Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle has been the residence of the English kings since 1100. Currently, along with the palace in Edinburgh, it is one of the main official residences of Queen Elizabeth II. It is one of the largest castles in Europe, with a length of 800 m, 19 towers and a total area of ​​45,000 m2. Interestingly, the largest permanently inhabited castle in the world. It has very rich collections of paintings and arts and crafts.

5. Castle Hohensalzburg

Hohensalzburg Castle, unusually majestic, is located on the Festung hill, above the city of Salzburg. The fortress is 150 m wide and 250 m long, making it one of the largest medieval fortresses in Europe. After the sights of Vienna (for example, St. Stephen's Cathedral), the castle in Salzburg is the most visited place in Austria by tourists. It was built approximately in the XI-XII centuries. It was used as the residence of aristocratic families, and not rarely as a prison for political opponents.

6. Spiš Castle

The Spis fortress, located on the territory of the Slovak village of Zhegra, is a historical castle complex at the turn of the 11th-12th centuries. It is one of the largest fortresses in Central Europe and the largest in Slovakia. Occupying about 4 hectares, the castle is mostly destroyed, only part of the fortress walls has been restored in our time. On the territory of the castle there is a small museum with exhibits related to the history of the castle. In 1993 he was included in the UNESCO list.

7. Pierrefonds Castle

Pierrefonds Castle is medieval castle a fortress located in french region Pierrefonds, built around the 12th century. The building was in a deplorable state for many years, which led to religious wars in the 17th century. In later times, it was owned, in particular, by Napoleon Bonaparte and the House of Bourbon. However, it was only in 1857 that the reconstruction of the castle was started, which was led by Viollet-le-Duc. Unfortunately, the restoration has erased the medieval character of the building.

8 Caerphilly Castle

Caerphilly Castle is the largest castle in Wales and the second largest (after Windsor Castle) in the UK. It was built by the English count Gilbert de Clare in the 13th century over an artificial lake. Known for its half-ruined tower, the angle of which is greater than that of the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa in Pisa. The building fell into disrepair during civil war, and its current appearance is the result of reconstruction carried out in the 19th and 20th centuries.

9. Royal Palace in Budapest

Royal Palace in Budapest, the majestic and huge royal castle, located on the southern tip of the Castle Hill in the center of the Hungarian capital. Since the 13th century, royal residences have been located on Castle Hill, but only the Habsburgs, who ruled Hungary, created the luxury known today. Its interiors, which were not reconstructed after the Second World War, house modern public institutions and museums.

10 Chambord Castle

Chateau de Chambord, the largest and most famous castle in the Loire Valley. It is one of the greatest architectural works of the Renaissance, and its silhouette is one of the most recognizable. Built in the 16th century as a royal residence. The size of the building can be evidenced by the fact that it has 440 rooms, 84 stairwells and 6 large towers.

Many of us like to visit castles while traveling - beautiful old buildings that still awe with their grandeur. Of course, they all deserve our attention, but there are those that every person needs to see at least once in their life. By the way, the title ancient castles is often very harmonious, causing a desire to admire the ancient strongholds of knights and kings. In order not to be unfounded, let's consider some as an example.

Austria. Mirabell Castle

In ancient times, almost everything was done out of love. Feats were performed, wars began, and castles were created - ancient and unusual today. Beautiful stone structures were often given to their loved ones as a wedding gift or as a token of eternal love. And Mirabell Castle, which is located on the territory of Austria, is no exception. It was erected in 1606 by order of Archbishop Wolf Dietrich, who later presented the fortress to a lady for whom he had tender feelings. After the death of the archbishop, Mirabell Castle fell into a variety of hands. Its new owners changed and rebuilt the structure in every possible way, so the fortress has practically not retained its original appearance to this day. But even this did not prevent Mirabell from becoming one of the most colorful and magnificent castles in Europe. And this is by no means an exaggeration. Despite the fact that castles - old, beautiful and unusual - are quite common throughout Austria, it was Mirabell that became the pearl of the beautiful baroque in Salzburg.

Germany. Lion Castle

If you have visited Germany at least once, in particular the city of Kassel, then you will certainly have visited one of the most popular routes here, which is called the German Fairy Tale Road. On it you can meet the medieval castle of the Lion, which could easily become great place for the film adaptation of some fantastic story. For some time, the fortress was even called the second "Disneyland". Many believe that the ancient castles were built in the Middle Ages, and when you look at this building, it seems that it could become the pearl of that era. But it is interesting that the Lion's Castle was built only in the 18th century. The architect, who was engaged in design and construction, traveled around England before starting work. There he studied the ruins of numerous fortresses with a romantic history, in order to later build a real masterpiece. During the Second World War, the Lion's Castle was badly damaged, but despite this, tourists from all over the world love to visit it.

Germany: Neuschwanstein

Old and unusual castles are found all over the world, but perhaps the craziest embodiment of human fantasy can be called Neuschwanstein, which is located on the territory of the same Germany. It was built at the request of King Ludwig, who from childhood hated the noisy and dusty Munich so much and only dreamed of leaving as soon as possible to his own palace. As soon as he had such an opportunity, Ludwig immediately ordered the construction of a real work of art from stone. To build the fortress of his dreams, the king spared neither effort nor finance. The result was Neuschwanstein - the most beautiful and unusual castle in Europe. Today, thousands of tourists from all over the world come here to take a look at this masterpiece at least with one eye. Unfortunately, the king himself never saw his dream - he died long before the end of construction.

Czech Republic, Trosky Fortress

When visiting the Czech Republic, you should definitely see the castle-fortress called Trosky. It is located in the nature reserve Czech paradise". This name is not at all accidental, because there are few places where you can see such landscapes. To date, no one knows for sure who exactly built the fortress. But most believe that it was the commander Chenek Vartenberg, who built it in the XIV century The view from the castle is so amazing that you won't be able to forget it for the rest of your life.

Portugal: Pena Castle

Despite the fact that there are practically no fortifications on the territory of Portugal that would remain safe and sound until today, one fortress still excites the imagination of hundreds of thousands of tourists from all over the world. Pena's doors do not decorate the old ones; she does not greet guests with the cold of stone, this castle is special. Its history begins with a chapel that was built here in the Middle Ages. Time passed, and around the chapel began to build a monastery. Unfortunately, it has not survived to this day, as it was completely destroyed in the 18th century by a strong earthquake. Until 1838, no one remembered these ruins, until the place caught the eye of Ferdinand II. It was here that he decided to build his country residence.

Pena Fortress is made in two styles: Islamic Gothic, Eclectic and Neo-Renaissance. Around pitched with exotic trees and flowers. The castle is notable for its unusual coloring and architectural details. At first glance, it is difficult to imagine that you see a fortification in front of you that could withstand the onslaught of enemies. The Walls of Pena rise above the city. It offers an unforgettable view of the streets of Sintra.

Alhambra Palace(Arabic Al Hamra - literally "Red Castle") is an ancient mosque, palace and fortress of the Moorish rulers of the province Granada on South Spain. The castle occupies the top of a rocky plateau on the southeastern border of Granada. Moorish poets described the Alhambra as a "pearl in emeralds", highlighting the bright colors of the buildings against the background of the green forest that once grew at the foot. Despite many years of decline, vandalism and sometimes unreasonable restoration of the Alhambra on this moment is one of the best examples of Moorish architecture in Europe, freed from the cultural influence of Byzantium. During its history, the castle was the residence of both Muslim and Christian rulers, and now it has been turned into a museum and one of the most famous attractions in Spain.

Story

In any case, the first mention of the Alhambra dates back to the 9th century. Savwar ben Hamdun ( Sawwar ben Hamdun) in 889 sought refuge in the Alcazaba ( Alcazaba), the citadel of the current Alhambra from the constant wars that torn apart the Caliphate of Cordoba.
His activities in Granada were limited to strengthening the walls of the citadel. The real heyday of the Alhambra began with the arrival of the first king of the Nasrid dynasty ( Nasrid) Muhammad bin Al-Ahmar ( Mohammed Al-Ahmar, Mohammed I, 1238-1273) . In the XIII century. The Alhambra becomes a royal residence and its "golden age" begins.
First of all, the old part of the castle, the Alcazaba, was fortified: lookout tower (Torre de la Vela) and donjon (Torre del Homenaje).
Under Mohammed II (1273-1302) and Mohammed III (1302-1309), part of the Darro River was allotted and numerous warehouses and additional ramparts were built. Under Mohammed III, public baths were also built on the site where the church of St. Mary would later be built.
The most significant contribution to the formation of the Alhambra as we see it now was made by the following rulers of the Nasrid Dynasty: Yusuf I ( Yusuf I, 1333-1353) and Muhammad V (1353-1391). It is with them that the creation Palace of Lions ( Patio de los Leone s ) and adjoining rooms, Gate of Justice (Puerta de la Justicia), decoration of towers, construction of baths ( Banos), Cuarto de Comares and Sala de la Barca(Sala de la Barca). Very little remains in the Alhambra of the previous kings of the Nasrid dynasty.

In subsequent years, traces of Moorish architecture were gradually destroyed. In 1812, the French blew up one of the towers of the Alhambra, but the whole castle, fortunately, escaped a similar fate. This is related to the following story. The explosion of the castle was planned by Napoleon Bonaparte himself, however, one of the commanders, who was instructed to carry out all the work, defused the explosives and thereby saved the castle for posterity.
In 1821 the castle was partially destroyed by an earthquake. Restoration work was begun in 1828 by the architect José Contreras ( Jose Contreras) and continued until 1830. After the death of Contreras, his son Rafael and grandson Mariano continued his work. Nowadays, the Alhambra has become a museum that attracts thousands of tourists from all over the world.

Architecture

The main decorative elements are stylized plant forms, their interlacing and rhombus nets. Also on the walls are many poems that belong to three poets. Ibn al-Yayyab (1274-1349), Ibn al-Jatib(1313-1375) and Ibn Zamrak(1333-1393), who were secretaries of the royal office and first ministers. It is believed that al-Zamrak is the most gifted among them. Examples of their poems can be found here .

And oddly enough, at the same time, there is a niche on the facade of the tower, in which there are sculptures of the Virgin Mary and the baby Jesus Christ.
The area of ​​the ponds (Plaza de los aljibes) The area got its name from the ponds that were built in 1494 by the Count of Tendilla ( Tendilla) in the moat between the Alcazaba and the Palaces.
wine gate (Puerto de Vino) - one of the most ancient. Their construction is attributed to the reign of Muhammad II. Now they stand alone in the middle Pond areas. Since 1556, the inhabitants of the Alhambra left wine here, which was not taxed.