Castles cannot simply be called ancient structures for defense. It is a source of memories of the glorious past of countries, of historical events, beautiful legends and love stories. Centuries pass, and the majestic buildings continue to amaze people with the harsh beauty and unique architecture. If you make a rating of castles by beauty, then it will look like this.
Mont Saint Michel, France
The small island of Saint-Michel is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is one of the most famous French attractions. The most beautiful castle is located high on a cliff. The upper spire of the fortress reaches 155.5 m above sea level.
Neuschwanstein, Germany
It was built for the King of Bavaria, Ludwig II. Currently, it is one of the most popular German attractions. The beauty of Neuschwanstein Castle gave him the opportunity to appear in films and cartoons more than once. The most beautiful castles in the world, and in particular, this option, inspired the famous composer Tchaikovsky to create Swan Lake.
Hohensalzburg, Austria
One of the largest medieval European castles. There is a fortress on Mount Festung (120 m). During its existence, Hohensalzburg was rebuilt and strengthened many times, over time it became an impregnable fortress. In the 19th century it was used as a warehouse, military barracks and a place for imprisonment.
Conwy, Wales, UK
This beautiful example of 13th century architecture was erected by order of King Edward I of England. He is surrounded by a stone wall with eight round towers. Now you can see only the walls of the structure, but even they look impressive. Conwy was heated by several huge fireplaces, the heat from one fireplace is equivalent to the work of several boilers of long burning.
Prague Castle, Czech Republic
This huge castle complex is located in Prague. It was erected in the middle of the 9th century. Prague Castle is not only beautiful, it is the largest of all the ancient castles. Now in Prague Castle - the residence of the Czech president.
Bran, Romania
Built in the 14th century by local peasants. They were exempted from taxes for construction. Belonged to local rulers, was a gift to Queen Mary of Edinburgh. Currently, this building is a national monument and a popular Romanian museum. The castle was especially famous thanks to the novel by Bram Stoker.
Osaka Castle, Japan
5 floors of the samurai palace were erected at the end of the 16th century. He became famous thanks to his important role in the history of the country. In 1614, the Tokugawa Shogun’s army of 200,000 warriors withstood the offensive. In the 17th century it was destroyed. It was rebuilt in the 20th century.
Peles, Romania
An unusual building in the neo-Renaissance style is located in the picturesque Romanian Carpathians. It was erected by order of Carol I at the end of the 19th century as a summer residence. Peles is now a national treasure.
Palace of Versailles, France
How, mentioning the most beautiful palaces, forget Versailles? This former residence of the French kings is located in the affluent suburbs of Paris. The complex began to be built in 1661, and completed - only in the last century. The architectural monument of world significance symbolizes the absolute monarchy.
Chillon Castle, Switzerland
Chillon is located on a rock, in the cleanest country in the world near the edge of Lake Geneva. In the 12th century, the residence of the Dukes of Savoy and a checkpoint on the strategically important road to the Saint-Bernan Pass. For a long time it was the only transport pass from Southern Europe to Northern.
