When we think of European castles, we quickly think of countries like France or Spain. However, Germany is the country with the largest number of castles in the worldwith more than 25,000 widespread throughout its geography.
This figure makes the German country a preferred destination for those who want to experience this type of culture up close. historical architecture. These are some of the most relevant aspects of this surprising statistic and factors that explain the abundance of castles in Germany.
Germany: the country with the most castles in Europe and the world
Germany tops the world list of countries with the largest number of castles. According to various estimates, there are more than 25,000 of these constructions throughout its territory, surpassing nations like France or the United Kingdomwhich are also known for their great architectural heritage.
The medieval history of Germany, marked by the existence of multiple independent duchies, principalities and kingdomsfavored the construction of thousands of castles as symbols of power and defense.
Throughout its territory, from Bavaria to the RhineThere you can find castles from different eras and architectural styles. Some of them are simple ruins, while others have been restored or transformed into museums and hotels.
There are several reasons why Germany has become the country with the largest number of castles:
- Feudal division: During the Middle Ages, Germany was divided into numerous fiefdoms, each with its own castle as a center of power and defense.
- Military strategy: Castles were built at strategic locations, such as hills, rivers and mountain passes, to control territory and provide defense against possible attacks.
- Historical heritage: Unlike other European countries, many of these buildings in Germany have been preserved or restored over the centuries, allowing them to remain standing today.
Some iconic examples of German castles include the Neuschwanstein Castle, Hohenzollern Castle and Heidelberg Castleall highly visited by tourists and history buffs.
Types of castles in Germany and the most notable
Castles in Germany do not follow a single architectural style or function. There are different types of castles They can be classified according to their location and destination:
- Mountain castles: These are those found in elevated areas, such as mountains or hills, that provide an important defensive advantage. A notable example is Hohenzollern Castle.
- Simple castles: Built in flat areas, near rivers or lakes, these castles mainly served as residences and administrative centers. Heidelberg Castle is a clear representative of this type.
- Border castles: built to defend the borders of a territory or kingdom. These castles were generally highly fortified and played a key role in military defense.
He Neuschwanstein Castle It is one of the most emblematic. Although it was completed in the late 19th century, its design was inspired by medieval castles and it was recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCOfollowing a request from the Bavarian government in 2008.
This castle stands out not only for its beauty, but also for its ability to attract more than 1.5 million visitors per year, establishing itself as one of the most popular tourist destinations in Germany. Since its interior was opened to the public, it has received more than 60 million visits.
Although Neuschwanstein is one of the most well-known castles, Germany has many other castles that deserve recognition. Among them stand out:
- Burghausen Castle: Located in Upper Bavaria, this Gothic complex has a main castle and five exterior courtyards. It has the honor of being the largest castle in the world, a certified record for its length.
- Mespelbrunn Castle: This castle, located in a wooded area, is an example of Renaissance architecture, known for its picturesque setting.
- Schweriner Castle: The third largest castle in Germany, located on an islet in Lake Schwerin, is an architectural gem of romanticism.
Castle tourism in Germany and the heritage they represent
As the country with the most castles in the world, it is understandable that castle-related tourism is a booming phenomenon. The offer of castles open to the public, as well as organized itineraries like the famous Romantic Routea, which includes several castles and palaces, makes Germany a favorite destination for lovers of medieval architecture and history.
Some castles were transformed into luxury hotels or paradoresallowing tourists to experience what it was like to live in one of these imposing buildings.
Efforts to preserve castles in Germany are one of the keys to the sustainability of this heritage. Many castles are protected by heritage laws which ensure its conservation.
In addition, Public and private funds are allocated for its restoration and maintenanceallowing these structures to continue to be accessible to the public and maintained in optimal condition.
