Neuschwanstein Castle, Bavaria, Germany

Perched on the Bavarian Alps, the Neuschwanstein Castle is a stunning 19th-century palace known for its fairy-tale architecture with soaring turrets, exquisite interiors, and breathtaking views. Commissioned by King Ludwig II of Bavaria, it's often associated with the swan symbol, as the king was fascinated with these graceful birds, which are incorporated into various elements of the castle's design.

The Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle draws its inspiration from Neuschwanstein.

The death of King Ludwig II adds an air of mystery to the castle's history. In 1886, under controversial circumstances, he was declared mentally unfit to rule and was found dead in Lake Starnberg shortly after. The circumstances surrounding his demise remain the subject of intrigue and speculation, adding an element of mystique to the legacy of Neuschwanstein Castle.Read more