Everyone has seen a Disney movie before, but do you know where their iconic castle is from? Located in Germany, Neuschwanstein Castle is the real-life inspiration for Disney’s magical palace.

Neuschwanstein Castle is known for its architecture that looks like it comes from a fairy tale. When covered by snow, it takes on an even more whimsical and enchanted look.

History of the Neuschwanstein Castle

One of the things that makes this castle so special is the story behind it. Originally commissioned by King Ludwig II of Bavaria in the 1800s, construction of the Neuschwanstein Castle began in September 1869.

Unlike most castles of the era, Neuschwanstein was intended to be a personal home and a tribute to the composer Richard Wagner, famous for his musical operas. The castle was designed by various people including:

• Eduard Riedel
• Christian Jank
• Julius Hofmann
• Georg von Dollmann

The Neuschwanstein Castle was never intended to be used for defense. By combining medieval aesthetics and modern technology, the designers created a whimsical palace with a medieval charm.

Sadly, the castle was still under construction by the time Ludwig died in 1886. Six years after his passing, the castle opened to the public.

A Strong Legacy

Neuschwanstein Castle quickly became one of the most visited tourist attractions in Germany. Since its opening, there have been more than sixty million visitors.

One of these sixty million visitors was Walt Disney. The Neuschwanstein castle became the inspiration for Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle.

Walt Disney took lots of influence from the iconic Roman architecture and cylinder towers of the Neuschwanstein castle. To this day, the castle remains in the opening sequences of every Disney movie.

Location of the Neuschwanstein Castle

This iconic castle is located in Schwangau, Germany. It’s near Füssen and Pöllat Gorge.

Right next to Neuschwanstein Castle is the Hohenschwangau Castle. This is where Ludwig, the founder of Neuschwanstein Castle, used to live as a child.

During the winter, Neuschwanstein Castle takes on an otherworldly appearance and transforms into a winter wonderland! Looking at these photos, it’s easy to see how this ended up as the Disney castle.

Neuschwanstein Castle Insides

If you thought the outsides of Neuschwanstein Castle looked enchanting, wait until you take a look at the insides! Every room has bright colors and gold. There are plenty of beautiful chandeliers and luxurious pieces of furniture.

Lots of the inner decorations were inspired by German and Norse mythology. There are wooden carvings and murals in nearly all the rooms.

Also present throughout the castle is the air heating system and electric bell system. These were included as part of the designers’ mission to mix a medieval aesthetic with modern technology.

The Grand Singer’s Hall

Inspired by the Singer’s Hall in Wartburg, the Grand Singer’s Hall occupies the entire fourth floor of the Neuschwanstein Castle. The hall features many murals of the Parzival saga and a stage with a painting of a forest.

Throne Hall

The Throne Hall is meant to resemble a Byzantine church. It takes up the third and fourth floors of the west section of the castle.

The hall has a huge chandelier and murals spanning across the walls and ceiling. The designers intended to include a throne, but it was never added to the final building.

Drawing Room

The Drawing room is another gorgeous room. It has gold mosaics, patterns, paintings, and many other intricate details. It’s furnished with a massive chandelier and luxurious chairs.

Tours of the Neuschwanstein Castle

The Neuschwanstein Castle is open for tourism most of the year. You can visit the castle as a part of a tour. Tickets can be purchased via their website.

Currently, most of the castle is undergoing a restoration process. As such, taking photos and videos is unfortunately not permitted.

Even if you can’t take photos, a tour of the Neuschwanstein Castle is still a great choice. Not only does it have a rich history, but it inspired the iconic Disney Castle and remains a symbol of beautiful architecture to this day.