The full-blown fantasy of castles possesses a magic you can never find anywhere else. The magnificent views allow visitors to revisit worlds of childhood bedtime stories. Moreover, if you want to peek into the history of a place and people, nothing can beat it. Are you ready to take in-depth architectural lessons and honor architects of that time? Simply put, castles serve as palatial time machines that allow their visitors a rollercoaster ride to enjoy an extravagant glimpse into the past. So here are some of the most beautiful castles in the world.
Peles Castle Sinaia, Romania
Peles Castle is located in the heart of the enchanting Bucegi Mountains. The neo-Renaissance–style castle is located in the quaint village of Sinaia. It contains more than 150 rooms each having a distinctive theme. You will get lost in the panoramic beauty and magnificence of this beauty. After the revolution in 1989, the Peles Castle was opened as a public museum. If you have ever been to Romania, try not to miss this iconic beauty.
Matsumoto Castle Matsumoto, Japan
Matsumoto Castle dates back to 1504. It was built to fend off invaders. With time, it switched hands throughout history and its design evolved into a tall three-towered structure. Matsumoto Castle is also known as Crow Castle due to its inky black walls and roofs. Moreover, it is among the national treasures of Japan. If you are an adventurous person, this last-standing example of a daimyo castle has everything for you.
Neuschwanstein Castle Schwangau, Germany
Neuschwanstein Castle Schwangau was built in 1868 during the reign of King Ludwig II of Bavaria. It was a way to escape from the public eye and political turbulence. Although the king was effectively stripped of his powers during the Austro-Prussian War. However, he always yearned for a kingdom of his own to rule. The famous castle of the fairy-tale king was opened to the public in 1886. Indeed it is among the most popular castles in all of Europe.
Pena National Palace Sintra, Portugal
Pena National Palace is an amalgam of Middle Eastern and European Baroque styles. It offers tourists a glimpse of the colorful flair of 19th-century Romanticism in Portugal. It was a summer home for the Portuguese royal family on the heart of a hill in the Sintra Mountains. Do you know that Pena National Palace is among the UNESCO World Heritage sites?
Château de Chenonceau, France
Château de Chenonceau is surrounded by manicured formal gardens. It was built back in the 11th century. The castle’s hallmark feature is the arched bridge which was later built in the 16th century. You will be amazed to know that the first-ever fireworks display in France was held on the grounds of this castle. Although the castle suffered extreme damage during World War II. But in 1951, the gardens and structure of the castle were brought back to their majestic state.
Red Fort Delhi, India
Red Fort or Lal Qila was built during the reign of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. It was when the empire’s capital was shifted from Agra to the newly built Delhi. Get lost in the intricate web of inlaid-paneled halls boasting traditional Mughal, Persian, and Timurid styles. The castle has a rather modest red sandstone façade. The red fort remained an icon in India throughout history. Not only this, every year on India’s Independence Day, the prime minister delivers a speech from the ramparts of Red Fort.
Frederiksborg Castle Hillerød, Denmark
Frederiksborg Castle is located on three small isles on Castle Lake. It remained as the royal residence for 100 years until 1859, till a major fire. To rebuild the castle, a nationwide lottery and collection were held to raise funds. Later on, in 1878, it was opened as the national history of Museum. Roam around and learn about the impressive collection of portraits, and historic paintings while walking in the interiors of the castle.
Edinburgh Castle, United Kingdom
Edinburgh Castle is one of the most beautiful castles in the world. It is standing tall on the crags of Castle Rock. The royal connections of this mesmerizing palace are traced back to the 12th century. The standing tall Edinburgh Castle exudes a sense of authority and nobility. If you are in Scotland, try to take some time out and explore the ancient artifacts of the Scottish monarchy like the Stone of Destiny.
Bran Castle in Bran, Romania
How can one miss Bran Castle which finds itself surrounded by lore and mystery? It was built in 1377 at the heart of the mountain pass between Transylvania and Wallachia. Do you know that the mysterious setting and Vlad’s bloodlust provoked Stoker’s infamous Dracula tale? The castle remained as the royal residence until 1947 and later reopened as a museum in 1993. We have brought you some of the most enchanting castles around the world. Are you ready to experience the fairytales of your childhood?
