The architectural glory of European countries is represented by their magnificent castles. Here are 10 of the Most Famous Castles In Europe.
Prague Castle, Czech Republic
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Prague Castle, founded around 880 AD, is the largest medieval castle in Europe and was once the seat of the Kings of Bohemia. Today, the President of the Czech Republic rules from here. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it consists of a large-scale composition of palaces and ecclesiastical buildings of various architectural styles, from the remains of Romanesque-style buildings from the 10th century through Gothic modifications of the 14th century.
Corfe Castle, England
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This particular castle is located on the Isle of Purbeck in the county of Dorset. If there ever was a castle that gave the impressions of a foreboding fortress, this would be it. Constructed initially in the 9th century with more towers being added in the 11th century. The castle is known to have been a defence mechanism for the Romanians. It is widely known that the fortress was used as a prison as well as a storeroom for all the treasure. The mention of treasure gives it a more royal feel. Source: thelisticles
Eilean Donan Castle, Scotland
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Eilean Donan Castle is one of the most recognised castles in Scotland, and probably appears on more shortbread tins and calendars than any other. It is, without doubt, a Scottish icon and certainly one of the most popular visitor attractions in the Highlands. When you first set eyes on it, it is easy to understand why so many people flock to its stout doors year after year. Strategically located on its own little island, overlooking the Isle of Skye, at the point where three great sea-lochs meet, and surrounded by the majestic splendour of the forested mountains of Kintail, Eilean Donan’s setting is truly breath-taking. Source: visitscotland
Conwy Castle, Wales
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Conwy Castle dominates the mouth of the River Conwy and the medieval walled town of Conwy in North Wales like a huge goliath and serves as the major tourist attraction in the county of Conwy. The castle was built on the orders of King Edward I of England and construction began in 1283 under the direction of Edward’s chief architect James of St. George. Today the castle is one of the best preserved castles in the whole of North Wales. Source: conwy-castle
Löwenburg Castle
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Löwenburg is one of the most beautiful castles in the world. The castle is located in the German town of Kassel, in the Wilhelmshöhe Mountain Park, on the Bavaria mountain, altitude 92 meters (301 ft) above sea level. Source: nordhessen
Malahide Castle, Ireland
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Malahide Castle is one of the highlights to any visit to Dublin. Located by the seaside village of Malahide, the castle is steeped in history, playing a central role in Medieval Irish history. Malahide Castle has a long and rich history and played a central role in Medieval Irish history. The oldest parts of the castle date back to the 12th century. The building was notably enlarged in the reign of Edward IV, and the towers added circa 1600-1650.
Hohenwerfen Castle, Austria
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The 900-year-old Hohenwerfen Fortress towers high above the Salzach Valley, between the Tennen and Hagen mountain ranges. Adventurers and culture buffs will find exactly what they’re looking for at Hohenwerfen: a variety of entertaining attractions including tours of the fortress, a weapons exhibit, a romantic castle tavern, a medieval shop and the historic Falconry Center with daily flight demonstrations, the first Austrian Falconry Museum as well as a birds of prey nature trail. Source: salzburg.info
Corvin Castle, Romania
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The medieval Corvin Castle is one of the most important monuments of Gothic architecture in Romania. The castle was built in 1446 by John Hunyadi (Iancu de Hunedoara), on the site of an old rampart on a cliff near the Zlaşti River. The former keep was originally given to his father by King Sigismund of Hungary, and Iancu wanted a more imposing transformation when he was elected regent of the kingdom. This is the same castle which has the honor of being called the Caste of Dracula. It is believed that he walked to tapestries and those halls once, in all his might. He maintained the castle as a prison. Source: thousandwonders
Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany
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The Neuschwanstein Castle really looks like a fairytale castle, it is one of the most visited castles in Germany and one of the most popular tourist destination in Europe. The castle is located in Bavaria, near the town of Fussen. It was built by King Ludwig II of Bavaria, also known as the “Fairytale King”. King Ludwig was a great admirer and supporter of Richard Wagner, the world-renowned composer. Neuschwanstein Castle was built in his honor and many rooms in the castle’s interior were inspired by Wagner’s characters.
Mont Saint-Michel, France
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Located on an island just off the coast of the region of Lower Normandy in northern France, Le Mont-St-Michel is a Gothic-style Benedictine abbey that was used in the 6th and 7th centuries as a stronghold of Romano-British culture and power. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it is one of Europe’s most unforgettable sights.
