Where Fairy Tales Come Alive

Step into a romantic time gone by, when you visit Germany’s numerous castles, their turrets and towers seemingly scraping the sky. Imagine the knights and ladies of yore as you walk through ancient halls and rooms, as did Apeksha Harihar, who describes a few of them

- Apeksha Harihar

Germany’s heritage goes beyond a bounty of world war memorabilia and spilling mugs of draught beer. The true history of the country seeks refuge on the steps leading to its medieval castles. Home to ancient kings, who sprinkled these castles around the country like pepper (20,000 to be precise), these are built in every size and shape. They lie within clandestine villages that might not make it to the typical European backpacking itinerary of a traveller, but have a magnetic effect on a seasoned one.

Since time immemorial the castles have been arousing fantasy and escape in the minds of millions. Even King Ludwig of the 19th century, probably the most famous German royal, fell prey, building the Neuschwanstein Castle that went on to inspire Cinderella’s castle in the Walt Disney film and become a world-renowned destination. Adding to the experience here, are several horse carriages waiting to give visitors a ride to the main entrance. It’s no wonder that the Grimm brothers who lived in Germany penned popular fairy tales like Snow White, Cinderella, Rapunzel and others — the stories hardly feel delusional after setting foot here.

King Ludwig acquired the Bavarian throne at a young age and was diagnosed as mad after losing several battles. To escape reality, he began spending lavishly on commissioning the construction of plentiful castles down south. The fairytale architecture became epic in the 19th century, influencing other princes throughout Germany; each contributing a fantastic treasure for future generations.