Medieval Castles > Castles Germany > Neuschwanstein Castle

Neuschwanstein Castle

Location:
Castle Neuschwanstein in Bavaria is a fairy tale castle in Allgäu near Füssen and Hohenschwangau, built by King Ludwig II of Bavaria. He is also known as 'Mad King Ludwig' and 'Fairy-tale King'. The castle is one of the most known touristic attractions in Bavaria.

Explanation of the name
Schwan is German for swan. Ludwig II was a big fan of Richard Wagner. The castle is named after the Swan Knight, a character in one of Wagner's operas. The swan was also the King Ludwig's favorite animal. His niece Elisabeth (Empress of Austria) gave him a large swan of porcelain, which still can be found in the castle.