Secrets of the world’s most incredible castles

Travel, Travel Tips, World Roaming 14 Minutes

Slide 1 of 61: Whether they've faced down bloody wars, revolutions or even careless owners, these historic forts and castles have survived the centuries to tell a tale. From lion enclosures to hidden passages, read on to discover the secrets these magnificent treasures contain.

If walls could talk

Whether they’ve faced down bloody wars, revolutions or even careless owners, these historic forts and castles have survived the centuries to tell a tale. From lion enclosures to hidden passages, read on to discover the secrets these magnificent treasures contain.

Slide 2 of 61: Perched within the mouth of a cave in Slovenia, it’s difficult to see where the rock ends and Predjama castle starts. This dramatic 13th-century fortress is rumored to have influenced George R.R.Martin, the author behind the TV series Game of Thrones.

Predjama Castle, Slovenia

Perched within the mouth of a cave in Slovenia, it’s difficult to see where the rock ends and Predjama castle starts. This dramatic 13th-century fortress is rumored to have influenced George R.R.Martin, the author behind the TV series Game of Thrones.

Slide 3 of 61: Visitors can explore the castle’s many rooms but there’s more than sumptuous interiors to Predjama. The legend of one of the castle owners, Knight Erazem, says he stole food from the rich to feed the poor using a series of intricate cave tunnels. Today, Erazem’s network of passages can be discovered on tours of the site.

Predjama Castle, Slovenia

Visitors can explore the castle’s many rooms but there’s more than sumptuous interiors to Predjama. The legend of one of the castle owners, Knight Erazem, says he stole food from the rich to feed the poor using a series of intricate cave tunnels. Today, Erazem’s network of passages can be discovered on tours of the site.
Slide 4 of 61: The imposing Alcázar of Toledo in central Spain, was built on the site of a Roman Palace in the 3rd century and completed by Emperor Charles V in the 15th century. A symbol of importance, the Alcázar was damaged in 1936 when it was held by Spanish Republicans in the country's Civil War.

Alcázar of Toledo, Spain

The imposing Alcázar of Toledo in central Spain, was built on the site of a Roman Palace in the 3rd century and completed by Emperor Charles V in the 15th century. A symbol of importance, the Alcázar was damaged in 1936 when it was held by Spanish Republicans in the country’s Civil War.
Slide 5 of 61: However, the Alcázar was restored in the 1940s and is now the site of Spanish Army offices and a military museum that welcomes visitors. The interior courtyard, pictured here, is a lovely place to stop and shelter from the midday sun. Planning a visit? Discover what to see in Toledo here. 

Alcázar of Toledo, Spain

However, the Alcázar was restored in the 1940s and is now the site of Spanish Army offices and a military museum that welcomes visitors. The interior courtyard, pictured here, is a lovely place to stop and shelter from the midday sun. Planning a visit?

Slide 6 of 61: The breathtaking Chateau De Chambord in the Loire Valley is a stunning example of French Renaissance architecture. Designed as a hunting lodge for King Francis I it was completed in 1547 and it's rumored Leonardo Da Vinci played a part in the design. After the French Revolution in 1792, some of the furnishings were sold but the Chateau survived.

Chateau De Chambord, France

The breathtaking Chateau De Chambord in the Loire Valley is a stunning example of French Renaissance architecture. Designed as a hunting lodge for King Francis I it was completed in 1547 and it’s rumored Leonardo Da Vinci played a part in the design. After the French Revolution in 1792, some of the furnishings were sold but the Chateau survived.
Slide 7 of 61: Although the chateau’s interior is as grand as the outside it’s the famous double staircase that draws in the biggest crowds. The "double helix" serves all the chateau’s many floors and is designed so that if two people are using each staircase they can see each through the windows yet never cross paths.

Chateau De Chambord, France

Although the chateau’s interior is as grand as the outside it’s the famous double staircase that draws in the biggest crowds. The “double helix” serves all the chateau’s many floors and is designed so that if two people are using each staircase they can see each through the windows yet never cross paths.
Slide 8 of 61: This impressive feat was originally called La Cuesta Encantada (“Enchanted Hill” in Spanish). It was dreamed up by media man William Randolph Hearst, who was inspired by his childhood travels in Europe. He teamed up with architect Julia Morgan in 1919, and the pair would spend almost three decades toiling away on the castle. Poor health meant Hearst never saw it completed, but even in its unfinished state the castle contained some 165 rooms and more than 100 acres of gardens.

Hearst Castle, California, USA

This impressive feat was originally called La Cuesta Encantada (“Enchanted Hill” in Spanish). It was dreamed up by media man William Randolph Hearst, who was inspired by his childhood travels in Europe. He teamed up with architect Julia Morgan in 1919, and the pair would spend almost three decades toiling away on the castle. Poor health meant Hearst never saw it completed, but even in its unfinished state the castle contained some 165 rooms and more than 100 acres of gardens.
Slide 9 of 61: Hearst was an art lover, too, and paintings and sculptures practically spill from the property: a highlight is Venus Italica, a sculpture of Venus by Italian Antonio Canova. The castle also has a dreamy Italianate terrace and the glittering Neptune pool, also of Roman influence. A range of tours are available to the public, including those themed around art and even Hollywood (Charlie Chaplin and Cary Grant were among the glittering parade of guests to visit the castle).

Hearst Castle, California, USA

Hearst was an art lover, too, and paintings and sculptures practically spill from the property: a highlight is Venus Italica, a sculpture of Venus by Italian Antonio Canova. The castle also has a dreamy Italianate terrace and the glittering Neptune pool, also of Roman influence. A range of tours are available to the public, including those themed around art and even Hollywood (Charlie Chaplin and Cary Grant were among the glittering parade of guests to visit the castle).
Slide 10 of 61: King Ludwig II of Bavaria built Neuschwanstein Castle in the 19th century to use as a private retreat from public life. So we’re willing to bet he’d have been shocked to see the 1.4 million annual visitors the castle welcomes today. While the stunning Neuschwanstein is an attraction on its own, many of today’s visitors flock to the fortress because it was the inspiration for Disney’s Sleeping Beauty castle in California.

King Ludwig II of Bavaria built Neuschwanstein Castle in the 19th century to use as a private retreat from public life. So we’re willing to bet he’d have been shocked to see the 1.4 million annual visitors the castle welcomes today. While the stunning Neuschwanstein is an attraction on its own, many of today’s visitors flock to the fortress because it was the inspiration for Disney’s Sleeping Beauty castle in California.
Slide 11 of 61: But the castle was also a dream world for its designer, Ludwig. Neuschwanstein’s interiors display Ludwig’s desire to escape into the medieval world that inspired the operas of German composer Richard Wagner. The castle is dedicated to Wagner and much of the art inside depicts the kings, poets and knights that appear in the composer’s work.

Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany

But the castle was also a dream world for its designer, Ludwig. Neuschwanstein’s interiors display Ludwig’s desire to escape into the medieval world that inspired the operas of German composer Richard Wagner. The castle is dedicated to Wagner and much of the art inside depicts the kings, poets and knights that appear in the composer’s work.
Slide 12 of 61: Mehrangarh Fort has guarded the northwestern city of Jodhpur since 1459. Built by Rao Jodha, the Rajasthani ruler who founded Jodhpur, entry to the fort is only obtained by passing through seven elaborate gates.

Mehrangarh Fort, India

Mehrangarh Fort has guarded the northwestern city of Jodhpur since 1459. Built by Rao Jodha, the Rajasthani ruler who founded Jodhpur, entry to the fort is only obtained by passing through seven elaborate gates.
Slide 14 of 61: The Tower of London may now be a world-famous tourist attraction, but the castle was once a notorious prison. Built in 1078, many of the Tower’s former inmates met a grisly end including Anne Boleyn (Henry VIII's second wife who was beheaded in 1536) and Guy Fawkes, (whose plot to overthrow the British monarchy is remembered in the annual firework night on 5 November). The last prisoners held in the Tower were surprisingly recent though – the notorious East End criminals the Kray twins in 1952. 

Tower of London, UK

The Tower of London may now be a world-famous tourist attraction, but the castle was once a notorious prison. Built in 1078, many of the Tower’s former inmates met a grisly end including Anne Boleyn (Henry VIII’s second wife who was beheaded in 1536) and Guy Fawkes, (whose plot to overthrow the British monarchy is remembered in the annual firework night on 5 November). The last prisoners held in the Tower were surprisingly recent though – the notorious East End criminals the Kray twins in 1952.

Slide 15 of 61: As well as being a prison, the Tower has served as an armory and a menagerie and is now the home of The Crown Jewels. You can see the crown Queen Elizabeth II wore on her coronation as well as the spot where Anne Boleyn lost her head. St John's chapel (pictured) was built for William the Conqueror in 1240. These days visitors are welcome at the Tower and unlike some of its previous guests, they're allowed to go home at the end of the day... After exploring the Tower, why not see what else London has to offer?

Tower of London, UK

As well as being a prison, the Tower has served as an armory and a menagerie and is now the home of The Crown Jewels. You can see the crown Queen Elizabeth II wore on her coronation as well as the spot where Anne Boleyn lost her head. St John’s chapel (pictured) was built for William the Conqueror in 1240. These days visitors are welcome at the Tower and unlike some of its previous guests, they’re allowed to go home at the end of the day..Slide 16 of 61: One of the finest lasting examples of Japanese castle architecture, Himeji Castle in the Hyōgo Prefecture, dates to the 14th century. But the castle was lucky to survive. In 1871 it was put up for auction after the end of the han feudal system. The buyer wanted to demolish the castle in order to develop the land but changed their mind when they realized the cost involved of destroying it.  

Himeji Castle, Japan

One of the finest lasting examples of Japanese castle architecture, Himeji Castle in the Hyōgo Prefecture, dates to the 14th century. But the castle was lucky to survive. In 1871 it was put up for auction after the end of the han feudal system. The buyer wanted to demolish the castle in order to develop the land but changed their mind when they realized the cost involved of destroying it.

Slide 17 of 61: Himeji also miraculously escaped damage during bombing in the Second World War and the Great Hanshin earthquake in 1995. Venture inside and you’ll find the castle’s interior is plain with little decoration. However, looks can be deceptive. Many of the castle’s walkways turn back on themselves to confuse invaders and even today’s visitors can end up bamboozled.

Himeji Castle, Japan

Himeji also miraculously escaped damage during bombing in the Second World War and the Great Hanshin earthquake in 1995. Venture inside and you’ll find the castle’s interior is plain with little decoration. However, looks can be deceptive. Many of the castle’s walkways turn back on themselves to confuse invaders and even today’s visitors can end up bamboozled.
Slide 18 of 61: You’d need a lot of time to fully explore Prague Castle. At 735,000 square feet (68,000 square meters) the complex is one of the largest in the world and home to St Vitus Cathedral as well as several other churches. Dating from the 9th century, the castle’s architecture spans almost every design style of the last millennium and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

 

Prague Castle, Czech Republic

You’d need a lot of time to fully explore Prague Castle. At 735,000 square feet (68,000 square meters) the complex is one of the largest in the world and home to St Vitus Cathedral as well as several other churches. Dating from the 9th century, the castle’s architecture spans almost every design style of the last millennium and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Slide 19 of 61: This picture was taken in Rudolph Gallery, one of five halls within the grounds. The gallery was first built in the 16th century but the stuccos you can see here were only added in the 19th. It's an area of the castle that's only open to the public on special occasions, such as for concerts, so it's worth planning your visit in advance.

Prague Castle, Czech Republic

This picture was taken in Rudolph Gallery, one of five halls within the grounds. The gallery was first built in the 16th century but the stuccos you can see here were only added in the 19th. It’s an area of the castle that’s only open to the public on special occasions, such as for concerts, so it’s worth planning your visit in advance.
Slide 20 of 61: One of the few real palaces in the USA, Iolani Palace was home to the Hawaiian monarchy in the 19th century. The royal residence was completed in 1882, a sumptuous property ahead of its time, complete with electricity and modern plumbing. Its architectural style is unique, dubbed “American Florentine” for its blend of traditional Hawaiian and Italian Renaissance features – its elegant columns and bold corner towers are most striking.

Iolani Castle, Hawaii, USA

One of the few real palaces in the USA, Iolani Palace was home to the Hawaiian monarchy in the 19th century. The royal residence was completed in 1882, a sumptuous property ahead of its time, complete with electricity and modern plumbing. Its architectural style is unique, dubbed “American Florentine” for its blend of traditional Hawaiian and Italian Renaissance features – its elegant columns and bold corner towers are most striking.
Slide 21 of 61: The interiors are equally as opulent, and the Throne Room is the plushest of them all. Red velvet curtains frame vast windows, chandeliers hang heavily from the ceiling and a pair of gilded thrones sit on a raised platform. King Kalakaua and Queen Kapi‘olani were the first royals to live here, moving in as soon as their regal abode was completed. The monarchy occupied the palace until 1893 when the then-leader Queen Lili'uokalani was overthrown. Today it's a public museum.

Iolani Castle, Hawaii, USA

The interiors are equally as opulent, and the Throne Room is the plushest of them all. Red velvet curtains frame vast windows, chandeliers hang heavily from the ceiling and a pair of gilded thrones sit on a raised platform. King Kalakaua and Queen Kapi‘olani were the first royals to live here, moving in as soon as their regal abode was completed. The monarchy occupied the palace until 1893 when the then-leader Queen Lili’uokalani was overthrown. Today it’s a public museum.
Slide 22 of 61: The formidable Malbork Castle was built by the Teutonic Knights, a group of German Catholic crusaders, in the 13th century. At the time of its completion it was the largest brick castle in the world. Malbork served as a residence for the Polish royal family until it was occupied, first by the Swedes in the 16th century, then by the Germans during the Second World War.

Malbork Castle, Poland

The formidable Malbork Castle was built by the Teutonic Knights, a group of German Catholic crusaders, in the 13th century. At the time of its completion it was the largest brick castle in the world. Malbork served as a residence for the Polish royal family until it was occupied, first by the Swedes in the 16th century, then by the Germans during the Second World War.
Slide 23 of 61: At the end of the war, the castle was returned to Poland. Visitors can explore its many rooms as well as the on-site museum. And Malbork still holds the title of the largest brick building in Europe.

Malbork Castle, Poland

At the end of the war, the castle was returned to Poland. Visitors can explore its many rooms as well as the on-site museum. And Malbork still holds the title of the largest brick building in Europe.
Slide 24 of 61: The Saladin Citadel is a magnificent medieval Islamic fort in Cairo. Constructed in the 12th century, the citadel was the first stage of ruler Salah-al-din’s plans to defend the cities of Cairo and Fustat from the Crusaders.

Saladin Citadel, Egypt

The Saladin Citadel is a magnificent medieval Islamic fort in Cairo. Constructed in the 12th century, the citadel was the first stage of ruler Salah-al-din’s plans to defend the cities of Cairo and Fustat from the Crusaders.
Slide 25 of 61: This picture is of the Mosque of Muhammed Ali, one of three places of worship at the Citadel. The mosque was built in the 19th century and is in an Ottoman style of design. On a clear day you can see as far as the Pyramids of Giza from outside the mosque.

Saladin Citadel, Egypt

This picture is of the Mosque of Muhammed Ali, one of three places of worship at the Citadel. The mosque was built in the 19th century and is in an Ottoman style of design. On a clear day you can see as far as the Pyramids of Giza from outside the mosque.
Slide 26 of 61: As legends go, Bran Castle is home to one of the spookiest. The 12th-century castle in Transylvania is known as "Dracula’s castle" – despite Bram Stoker, author of Dracula, never having visited Romania. The castle’s turrets and hill location contribute to its eerie air. 

Bran Castle, Romania

As legends go, Bran Castle is home to one of the spookiest. The 12th-century castle in Transylvania is known as “Dracula’s castle” – despite Bram Stoker, author of Dracula, never having visited Romania. The castle’s turrets and hill location contribute to its eerie air.

Slide 27 of 61: The castle is now used to exhibit furniture and artifacts collected by Romania’s late Queen Marie. However, in 2016 two vampire fans became the first people to spend the night in Bran Castle after winning an Airbnb competition. The Canadian siblings slept in velvet lined coffins and despite some people’s fears, survived the night.

Bran Castle, Romania

The castle is now used to exhibit furniture and artifacts collected by Romania’s late Queen Marie. However, in 2016 two vampire fans became the first people to spend the night in Bran Castle after winning an Airbnb competition. The Canadian siblings slept in velvet lined coffins and despite some people’s fears, survived the night.
Slide 28 of 61: Perched on a hill, Amer Fort dwarfs the small town of the same name that lies below. Jaipur – around eight miles away – is known as the "Pink City" and this fortress, built entirely of red sandstone and marble is typical of the region's style. The imposing castle was started in 1592 and has been the home of many Rajasthani royals over the years. 

Amer Fort, near Jaipur, India

Perched on a hill, Amer Fort dwarfs the small town of the same name that lies below. Jaipur – around eight miles away – is known as the “Pink City” and this fortress, built entirely of red sandstone and marble is typical of the region’s style. The imposing castle was started in 1592 and has been the home of many Rajasthani royals over the years.

Slide 30 of 61: Edinburgh Castle’s imposing battlements overlook the city’s Old Town. The castle dates back to the 12th century and has reportedly been a part of 26 attacks, earning it the dubious accolade of being "the most besieged place in Great Britain".

Edinburgh Castle, Scotland, UK

Edinburgh Castle’s imposing battlements overlook the city’s Old Town. The castle dates back to the 12th century and has reportedly been a part of 26 attacks, earning it the dubious accolade of being “the most besieged place in Great Britain”.
Slide 31 of 61: Today the castle is Scotland’s most visited tourist attraction and hosts the Edinburgh Military Tattoo every year during August. Inside, the castle’s dark wood interiors emphasize its grandeur with The Great Hall, built for James IV in 1511, the palace's glorious centerpiece. If you're visiting Scotland look out for the Scottish currency as you'll find Edinburgh Castle is now even featured on some £10 notes. Spending the weekend in Edinburgh? Find out what else to discover.

Edinburgh Castle, Scotland, UK

Today the castle is Scotland’s most visited tourist attraction and hosts the Edinburgh Military Tattoo every year during August. Inside, the castle’s dark wood interiors emphasize its grandeur with The Great Hall, built for James IV in 1511, the palace’s glorious centerpiece. If you’re visiting Scotland look out for the Scottish currency as you’ll find Edinburgh Castle is now even featured on some £10 notes. Spending the weekend in Edinburgh? Find out what else to discover.

Slide 32 of 61: Dario Sattui didn’t rush into building Castello di Amorosa in Napa, California in 1994 – he did his groundwork first. Modeled on a 13th-century Tuscan castle, and surrounded by acres of woodland, this romantic idyll is the perfect place to enjoy fine Italian-style wines – just as its maker intended it to be. Sattui spent years visiting Europe before setting up his winery in Napa Valley, buying and renovating a slew of smaller palatial properties in Italy before he embarked on his master project.

Castello Di Amorosa, California, USA

Dario Sattui didn’t rush into building Castello di Amorosa in Napa, California in 1994 – he did his groundwork first. Modeled on a 13th-century Tuscan castle, and surrounded by acres of woodland, this romantic idyll is the perfect place to enjoy fine Italian-style wines – just as its maker intended it to be. Sattui spent years visiting Europe before setting up his winery in Napa Valley, buying and renovating a slew of smaller palatial properties in Italy before he embarked on his master project.

Slide 34 of 61: Granada’s impressive Alhambra was built during Spain’s Moorish period in the mid-13th century. The Alhambra served as a royal palace and its exquisite gardens are home to many beautiful walkways and fountains.

The Alhambra of Granada, Spain

Granada’s impressive Alhambra was built during Spain’s Moorish period in the mid-13th century. The Alhambra served as a royal palace and its exquisite gardens are home to many beautiful walkways and fountains.
Slide 35 of 61: The Alhambra’s buildings are elaborately decorated from floor-to-ceiling and it’s easy to imagine Spanish royals walking through the gardens. Its beauty has inspired many works of literature and film including Washington Irving’s Tales of the Alhambra. Discover more of what Spain's Andalucía region has to offer.

The Alhambra of Granada, Spain

The Alhambra’s buildings are elaborately decorated from floor-to-ceiling and it’s easy to imagine Spanish royals walking through the gardens. Its beauty has inspired many works of literature and film including Washington Irving’s Tales of the Alhambra. Discover more of what Spain’s Andalucía region has to offer.

Slide 37 of 61: Though it’s now rarely filled with water, this was the swimming pool or public bath in the castle complex of Gondar. Today the bath is used for the Timkat festival, a unique Christian orthodox celebration of Jesus’ baptism. Believers gather at the waterfront to watch the priest bless the water. You can also see the lower halls, kitchens, steam rooms and lion enclosures at the Gondar site.

 

Castles of Gondar, Ethiopia

Though it’s now rarely filled with water, this was the swimming pool or public bath in the castle complex of Gondar. Today the bath is used for the Timkat festival, a unique Christian orthodox celebration of Jesus’ baptism. Believers gather at the waterfront to watch the priest bless the water. You can also see the lower halls, kitchens, steam rooms and lion enclosures at the Gondar site.
Slide 38 of 61: The first historical record of the De Haar castle in Utrecht is from 1391, but the castle that today’s citizens know and love was rebuilt in 1892. Etienne van Zuylen van Nijevelt inherited the castle and spent 20 years restoring it with the backing of his wife’s family, the Rothschilds.

De Haar Castle, the Netherlands

The first historical record of the De Haar castle in Utrecht is from 1391, but the castle that today’s citizens know and love was rebuilt in 1892. Etienne van Zuylen van Nijevelt inherited the castle and spent 20 years restoring it with the backing of his wife’s family, the Rothschilds.
Slide 39 of 61: De Haar’s interior is decorated with richly ornamented woodcarving mirroring Roman Catholic design at the time and there are 200 rooms and 30 bathrooms, some of which are open to the public. The castle is situated in beautiful parkland and its grounds often play host to weddings too.

 

De Haar Castle, the Netherlands

De Haar’s interior is decorated with richly ornamented woodcarving mirroring Roman Catholic design at the time and there are 200 rooms and 30 bathrooms, some of which are open to the public. The castle is situated in beautiful parkland and its grounds often play host to weddings too.
Slide 40 of 61: The enchanting Pena Palace, near Sintra, could be from a fairy tale. Designed in a 19th-century romantic style, it started life as a chapel. King Ferdinand II of Portugal elevated it to its current magnificence after buying the property in the 1830s.

 

Pena Palace, Portugal

The enchanting Pena Palace, near Sintra, could be from a fairy tale. Designed in a 19th-century romantic style, it started life as a chapel. King Ferdinand II of Portugal elevated it to its current magnificence after buying the property in the 1830s.
Slide 41 of 61: This is the kitchen inside the palace where today’s visitors can get an idea of the scale of preparation needed to keep the castle’s royal inhabitants happy. Discover what else to see in nearby Lisbon and its surrounds too, with our full guide to the Portuguese capital. 
 

Pena Palace, Portugal

This is the kitchen inside the palace where today’s visitors can get an idea of the scale of preparation needed to keep the castle’s royal inhabitants happy. Discover what else to see in nearby Lisbon and its surrounds too, with our full guide to the Portuguese capital.

Slide 42 of 61: Oman’s Nizwa Fort, around an hour outside the capital of Muscat, was finished in the 17th century, although the original structure is from the 12th century. The construction took 12 years to complete and the design is famous for its architectural deception, involving spiked wooden doors and so-called "murder holes" used to pour boiling date syrup onto intruders.

Nizwa Fort, Oman

Oman’s Nizwa Fort, around an hour outside the capital of Muscat, was finished in the 17th century, although the original structure is from the 12th century. The construction took 12 years to complete and the design is famous for its architectural deception, involving spiked wooden doors and so-called “murder holes” used to pour boiling date syrup onto intruders.
Slide 43 of 61: With its thick walls and numerous openings for mortar fire, the Nizwa Fort was certainly built to withstand military attacks. Today, however, it's an illustration of how the Omani people used to live. The pictured room has been converted into a library to help the fort’s many visitors discover the country's history.

 

Nizwa Fort, Oman

With its thick walls and numerous openings for mortar fire, the Nizwa Fort was certainly built to withstand military attacks. Today, however, it’s an illustration of how the Omani people used to live. The pictured room has been converted into a library to help the fort’s many visitors discover the country’s history.
Slide 44 of 61: The picturesque Peles Castle was constructed for Romanian King Carol I in 1883. King Carol fell in love with the Carpathian Mountains and decided to build a summer retreat in Sinaia, central Romania. It's not a modest affair however, as the castle’s architectural style is a mix of neo-Renaissance and Gothic revival.

 

Peles Castle, Romania

The picturesque Peles Castle was constructed for Romanian King Carol I in 1883. King Carol fell in love with the Carpathian Mountains and decided to build a summer retreat in Sinaia, central Romania. It’s not a modest affair however, as the castle’s architectural style is a mix of neo-Renaissance and Gothic revival.
Slide 45 of 61: There are over 170 rooms, many of which are decorated to reflect different world cultures, such as the Turkish Salon. This picture shows the magnificent, wood-paneled dining room. Peles Castle is open for tours and also houses the Peles National Museum, so it's worth a detour if you're at Bran Castle, around an hour away by car.

45/61 SLIDES © Vlad Vulturar/Shutterstock

Peles Castle, Romania

There are over 170 rooms, many of which are decorated to reflect different world cultures, such as the Turkish Salon. This picture shows the magnificent, wood-paneled dining room. Peles Castle is open for tours and also houses the Peles National Museum, so it’s worth a detour if you’re at Bran Castle, around an hour away by car.
Slide 46 of 61: Let them eat cake! Whether Marie Antoinette, Chateau De Versailles’ most famous resident, said the line or not, the palace near Paris is renowned for its decadence. Constructed in the 17th century, Versailles served as the French royal family’s home until the Revolution in 1789. 
46/61 SLIDES © Pichetw/Shutterstock

Chateau De Versailles, France

Let them eat cake! Whether Marie Antoinette, Chateau De Versailles’ most famous resident, said the line or not, the palace near Paris is renowned for its decadence. Constructed in the 17th century, Versailles served as the French royal family’s home until the Revolution in 1789.

Slide 47 of 61: During the Revolution, the palace was stripped of many of its furnishings but lots of the pieces were returned and the Chateau has since been restored. It receives millions of visitors a year and although the many rooms and gardens take a whole day to see, most tourists are angling to see the Chateau’s famed Hall of Mirrors, pictured here. Once you've explored Versailles, here's where to eat and sleep in the French capital. 

Chateau De Versailles, France

During the Revolution, the palace was stripped of many of its furnishings but lots of the pieces were returned and the Chateau has since been restored. It receives millions of visitors a year and although the many rooms and gardens take a whole day to see, most tourists are angling to see the Chateau’s famed Hall of Mirrors, pictured here. Once you’ve explored Versailles, here’s where to eat and sleep in the French capital.

Slide 48 of 61: Jaisalmer fort was constructed in 1156 and its clever design ensures it's camouflaged to baffle intruders. A tawny color in the day it fades to honey as the sun sets, blending in with the surrounding Thar desert. 

49/61 SLIDES © Shutterstock

Jaisalmer Fort, India

The fort is believed to be one of the only “living forts” in the world today, as nearly a fourth of the old city’s population still reside within its walls. Inside you’ll find Raj Mahal Palace and several Jain temples, as well as the havelis (townhouses) where the local merchants lived. This picture shows an elaborately decorated havelis with ornate doorways typical of the time.

Slide 50 of 61: Moszna Castle was constructed in the 17th century and thanks to its 365 rooms and 99 turrets, it would be possible to spend every day in a different room over the course of a year. The park the castle stands in is a beautiful environment of canals, meadows and forest too.

Moszna Castle, Poland

Moszna Castle was constructed in the 17th century and thanks to its 365 rooms and 99 turrets, it would be possible to spend every day in a different room over the course of a year. The park the castle stands in is a beautiful environment of canals, meadows and forest too.
Slide 51 of 61: In 1945, Moszna was occupied by the Soviet Red Army leading its owners to flee to Germany. The occupation caused significant damage to Moszna’s interior furnishings but this grand staircase has stood the test of time. Although the castle was briefly used as a hospital following the Second World War it’s now open to tourists as well as housing an art gallery.
 

Moszna Castle, Poland

In 1945, Moszna was occupied by the Soviet Red Army leading its owners to flee to Germany. The occupation caused significant damage to Moszna’s interior furnishings but this grand staircase has stood the test of time. Although the castle was briefly used as a hospital following the Second World War it’s now open to tourists as well as housing an art gallery.
Slide 52 of 61: Touting itself as “America’s largest home”, Biltmore Estate is modeled on a French chateau and was completed in 1895, after six years of construction. Location is the real draw here, though. When young George Vanderbilt, a New York businessman from a distinguished family, visited the smoky Blue Ridge mountains, he knew he wanted to make them his backyard. Upon its completion, Biltmore Estate boasted an impressive 250 rooms, including 35 bedrooms.
 

Biltmore Estate, North Carolina, USA

Touting itself as “America’s largest home”, Biltmore Estate is modeled on a French chateau and was completed in 1895, after six years of construction. Location is the real draw here, though. When young George Vanderbilt, a New York businessman from a distinguished family, visited the smoky Blue Ridge mountains, he knew he wanted to make them his backyard. Upon its completion, Biltmore Estate boasted an impressive 250 rooms, including 35 bedrooms.
Slide 53 of 61: He soon filled them with friends and family, and his future wife, Edith, who he married three years later. After Vanderbilt’s death in 1914, his son William set up Biltmore Estate Wine Company and began growing vines on the property. The estate remains a winery today, and visitors can take a tasting at the bar, explore the sprawling grounds and vineyards, and stay in one of the several ritzy lodgings.

 

Biltmore Estate, North Carolina, USA

He soon filled them with friends and family, and his future wife, Edith, who he married three years later. After Vanderbilt’s death in 1914, his son William set up Biltmore Estate Wine Company and began growing vines on the property. The estate remains a winery today, and visitors can take a tasting at the bar, explore the sprawling grounds and vineyards, and stay in one of the several ritzy lodgings.
Slide 54 of 61: If you look closely at the Alcázar of Segovia, you’ll notice something unusual about its design. Despite Segovia being landlocked, the fortress is shaped like the bow of a ship. The first historical record of the Alcázar’s existence is from the 12th century but the majority of the construction was probably completed by King Philip II in the 1500s.

 

Alcázar of Segovia, Spain

If you look closely at the Alcázar of Segovia, you’ll notice something unusual about its design. Despite Segovia being landlocked, the fortress is shaped like the bow of a ship. The first historical record of the Alcázar’s existence is from the 12th century but the majority of the construction was probably completed by King Philip II in the 1500s.
Slide 55 of 61: The Hall of the Galley (pictured) is in keeping with the ship theme of the Alcázar, designed in the shape of an inverted ship hull. Although the Alcázar has been used as the royal court, a prison and a military college it is now open for tourists to explore.

 

Alcázar of Segovia, Spain

The Hall of the Galley (pictured) is in keeping with the ship theme of the Alcázar, designed in the shape of an inverted ship hull. Although the Alcázar has been used as the royal court, a prison and a military college it is now open for tourists to explore.
Slide 56 of 61: Built in the 15th century, the Citadel was designed to protect the kingdom of Alexandria in the country's north. It is believed to have been erected on the same spot as the city's famous Lighthouse, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

The Citadel of Qaitbay, Egypt

Built in the 15th century, the Citadel was designed to protect the kingdom of Alexandria in the country’s north. It is believed to have been erected on the same spot as the city’s famous Lighthouse, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Slide 57 of 61: A British invasion in 1882 heavily damaged the fortress leaving it in disrepair for several years. However, in the 20th century restoration work began and today it’s open to tourists. Although there are no artifacts on display, guests can wander the cavernous hallways and enjoy spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea.

The Citadel of Qaitbay, Egypt

A British invasion in 1882 heavily damaged the fortress leaving it in disrepair for several years. However, in the 20th century restoration work began and today it’s open to tourists. Although there are no artifacts on display, guests can wander the cavernous hallways and enjoy spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Slide 59 of 61: Although the castle fell into ruin after one of its owners started selling it off in parts, it was restored by the royal family in the 19th century. Members of the Luxembourg resistance even used the castle during a battle against the Nazis in 1944. Today Vianden can be visited year-round with highlights including the Renaissance-style dining room pictured here. 
 

Vianden Castle, Luxembourg

Although the castle fell into ruin after one of its owners started selling it off in parts, it was restored by the royal family in the 19th century. Members of the Luxembourg resistance even used the castle during a battle against the Nazis in 1944. Today Vianden can be visited year-round with highlights including the Renaissance-style dining room pictured here.

Slide 60 of 61: Lithuania’s Trakai Castle is in a stunning location in the center of Lake Galve. The castle was built in the 14th century and is the only island castle in Eastern Europe. It has served many purposes in its lifetime going from fortress to residence to a prison. Sadly, in the 17th century the castle was damaged and fell into disrepair.  Discover more grand residences, palaces and stately homes you can actually explore

Trakai Castle, Lithuania

Lithuania’s Trakai Castle is in a stunning location in the center of Lake Galve. The castle was built in the 14th century and is the only island castle in Eastern Europe. It has served many purposes in its lifetime going from fortress to residence to a prison. Sadly, in the 17th century the castle was damaged and fell into disrepair.

Slide 61 of 61: Happily, the castle was reconstructed after the Second World War in 1961 and is now one of Lithuania’s major tourist attractions. Pictured here is the castle chapel, but it's not just the interiors drawing visitors – there is a program of events and concerts too.  Look up: the world's jaw-dropping ceilings

Trakai Castle, Lithuania

Happily, the castle was reconstructed after the Second World War in 1961 and is now one of Lithuania’s major tourist attractions. Pictured here is the castle chapel, but it’s not just the interiors drawing visitors – there is a program of events and concerts too.

Unknown's avatar

Published by Sarha

Helping those who are looking for good international travel tips. I also have published few articles posted by top notch writers on different sites.

Published

Leave a comment