German Castles

One of the most unique sights of Germany (as well much of Europe, with its long ancient history) is castles and palaces. You don't find such creations in the US. They are rich with history and the setting of many an enchanting fairy tale. Here's a small sampling of some of the ones I've visited and would like to visit.

The Heidelberg Castle was only a 20-minute drive away from Mannheim, so it was very easy to get to. It overlooks the Neckar River, and so boasts not only fascinating sights such as the castle ruins:

... a giant beer vat...

Yes, that's me with short, curly hair :-P

... but also a great view of the Neckar Valley:

Worth a visit!

Probably the most renowned of all the German castles is the Neuschwanstein castle in Bavaria, made famous because it's what the Disney castle is based on.

And of course, the Zwinger in Dresden (more of a palace than a castle, but that's similar enough, no?)

Charlottenburg in Berlin:

Hohenzollern near Stuttgart:

And the Nordkirchen in my birthplace of Muenster, which has a pretty awesome aerial view:

If you ever visit Germany, be sure to include a castle or two in your itinerary!

I'm posting every day in October as part of the 31-Day Writing Challenge. Click here to read more about it and to see the rest of my posts this month!