We live in the age of modern technology, but sometimes we want romance so much. And what could be more romantic than a medieval castle? We offer you 7 of the most ancient castles in Europe, which you can freely visit as soon as the borders open after the pandemic.
Cochem Castle, Germany
The Imperial Castle of Cochem is the oldest surviving castle in Europe. It was founded by the Lorraine Palatines around 1000. In 1151 Cochem passed into the possession of the Staufen dynasty and became an imperial castle.
In 1688, the French king Louis XIV captured the castle. It was restored in the then popular neo-Gothic style in 1868, when the Ravené family acquired the castle. The new owners established their summer residence here, furnishing the medieval fortress with exquisite Renaissance and Baroque furniture.
Now the Cochem castle is owned by the city of the same name and is open for tourist visits.
Warwick Castle, UK
Warwick Castle was built in 1068 by William the Conqueror. The castle was constantly fortified and rebuilt, for example, at the height of the Hundred Years War in the XIII-XIV centuries, two more towers were added.
The castle fell under siege during the English Revolution of 1640 and fell into disrepair shortly thereafter. But it was completely transformed at the beginning of the 21st century, when large-scale restoration work took place on the territory of the medieval fortress.
Now Warwick Castle is very popular among tourists - various attractions, music festivals and even knightly tournaments are held here.
Windsor Castle, UK
Windsor Castle has been owned by the English royal family for over 900 years. The first fortress on this site was built by William the Conqueror in 1070. Subsequent kings rebuilt the castle many times, gradually turning it into a luxurious residence.
The main buildings of Windsor Castle have survived from the Middle Ages. Of particular note are the powerful Norman Gate, the Round Tower and the Gothic chapel of St. George, where many members of the royal family are buried.
39 different British monarchs have resided at Windsor Castle, including the current reigning Queen Elizabeth II. At the same time, some rooms of the castle are open for tourist visits, but only on certain days when the queen is away.
Hohensalzburg Fortress, Austria
Hohensalzburg Fortress is one of the largest medieval defensive structures in all of Europe. Salzburg princes-bishops built the first fortifications here in 1077. Salzburg Castle acquired its modern look at the beginning of the 16th century.
Now the Hohensalzburg Fortress operates as a museum. Various historical exhibits are displayed here, including the famous Salzburg Bull organ, played by Leopold Mozart, the great composer's father. The organ was installed in 1502 and is still in operation.
The castle is located on a hill 120 meters high. You can get to it both on foot and by cable car. Interestingly, the first funicular was built back in 1500.
Kilkenny Castle, Ireland
Kilkenny Castle is one of the oldest in Ireland, built by the Earl of Pembroke in 1195. The fortress acquired its present appearance in the 13th century, when the famous four round towers were added.
The castle was owned by the powerful Butler family for over 400 years. In 1967, the fortress was transferred to the city of Kilkenny. Several areas are now open to the public, including an art gallery, library and luxurious bedrooms. Tourists are also welcome to take a walk in the park.
Rochester Castle, UK
Rochester Castle was built in 1080 by Bishop Gandalf, a famous medieval architect who also designed the famous Tower of London. The castle was of great strategic importance during the war between the sons of William the Conqueror.
In the XII century, a huge donjon was added, which has survived to this day. The castle was sieged several times and was half destroyed in the 14th century. Now the picturesque ruins of Rochester Castle are open to tourists.
Alcazar in Segovia, Spain
The Alcazar in Segovia grew up on the site of an ancient Roman fort. The modern castle building was built by King Alfonso VI in 1120. The Alcazar served as the seat of the Castilian kings until the capital was moved to Madrid under Philip II. In the 19th century, a military academy was located here.
Now the Alcazar is one of the most visited places in Spain; a museum is open here, which displays portraits of kings, antique furniture and tapestries.
The Alcazar in Segovia has a stunning appearance. It is believed to have inspired the famous Cinderella Castle at Disneyland.
