The 12 Most Enchanting Castles Around the World

There’s something about castles that make them magical and elegant. It could be because we all grew up reading and watching fairy tales and knowing that the story won’t be complete without a prince and a princess living happily ever after in a castle. Behold, we give you, the castles which perhaps in one way or another inspired the fairy tales we love.

Neuschwanstein Castle

The Neuschwanstein Castle is a German castle which was built by Ludwig II of Bavaria in the 19th century. Up to this day, the said castle still looks majestic and elegant as it were when it was newly constructed.

Château de Chambord

As far as architectural superiority is concerned, the Château de Chambord is definitely a class of its own. Located in a secluded area, the castle is surrounded by nature, and is a place ideal for settling down. It took a total of 28 years to finish the Château and it became open to the public back in 2007.

Castle Hohenschwangau

Another German castle, Castle Hohenschwangau was built by King Maximilian II of Bavaria, father of King Ludwig II of Bavaria. The castle was the childhood home of Ludwig and must have served as an inspiration for him when he built the Neuschwanstein Castle.

Castle Howard

Located north of Yorkshire, England, this majestic castle serves as the private residence of the Howard family, more specifically the Carlisle branch. It is set in a wide expanse of land and has been the residence of the family for over 300 years.

Catherine Palace

Found near St. Petersburg in Russia, the construction of the castle was commissioned by Catherine of Russia for the purpose of it being a summer home back in 1717. Her daughter, Empress Elizabeth saw to the expansion of the palace and now serves as a location for exclusive parties.

Tafaria Castle

Considered to be one of the youngest castles in the list, the Tafaria Castle was finished in 2012 and was commissioned by a rich businessman in Kenya. He was fascinated by tales of knights and castles so he decided to build his dream. The castle is open to the public where they can stay for relaxing getaways.

Kronborg Castle

Located in Denmark, the Kronborg Castle was built by King Erick VII in the 16th century. The castle was mentioned by Shakespeare in Hamlet, only, the great poet used a different name for the palace. It was used as an army stronghold in the 19th century and is now accessible to the public.

Château de Versailles

One of the most artistic and sophisticated castles of all time, the Château de Versailles is built in France. It sits on a huge 17 acres of land and dates as far back to the 17th century, with the objective of providing residence to royalty.

Edinburgh Castle

The Edinburgh Castle sits on top of a volcanic rock in the city of Edinburgh. It is one of the most historic castles as the rock where it sits has a deep history of early settlement, providing interest to archaeologists. Apart from this, the palace has historic military and royal ties, as well.

Schloss Moritzburg

The Germans love for castles can again be seen in this huge palace that is located near Saxony. The Schloss was built as a hunting lodge for royalty between 1542 to 1546. One of the unique features of the castle is that it is surrounded by water. Back in the medieval ages, it was essential that castles were surrounded by water to keep the enemies at bay. Since then, the castle has gone through some remodeling.

Kilkenny Castle

Built by Willam Marshal in the year 1195, the Kilkenny Castle is located in Ireland. Behind the beauty of this majestic palace is a history of wars that has damaged many parts of the castle. It has since been restored to its opulent glory.

Osaka Castle

One of Japan’s most famous landmarks, Osaka Castle is also built on top of a rock back in the 16th century. Osaka Castle overlooks a moat to protect it from enemies back then. It was also subjected to attacks before yet it still is beautiful up to now.