Germany’s most famous attraction, Neuschwanstein, is located in scenic Bavaria. This beautiful 19th century castle was built by king Ludwig II before his tragic death in 1886. In this blog, we will discuss the tragic circumstances behind this landmark which had been the inspiration behind Disney’s Cinderella castle.
Ludwig II was King of Bavaria from 1864 until his death in 1886. Born in 1845, Ludwig spent a large part of his childhood in Hohenwerfen castle located in the town of Scwhangau,. The castle is within sight of Neuschwanstein, later built by Ludwig on a hilltop above the town, from where he could view his childhood home and surroundings.
Ludwig ascended to the throne in 1864 at the age of 18 but increasingly withdrew from day-to-day affairs of state in favour of extravagant artistic and architectural projects. He commissioned the construction of lavish palaces, notably, Neuschwanstein Castle, Linderhof Palace, and Herrenchiemsee. He was also a devoted patron of the composer Richard Wagner.
Ludwig spent all his own private royal revenues, but not state funds as is commonly thought, on these projects. He also borrowed extensively, and defied all attempts by his ministers to restrain him. This extravagance was used against him to declare him insane, an accusation that has since come under scrutiny. Ludwig was deposed on 12 June 1886, and he and his doctor were found dead on the following day. His death was ruled to be a suicide, a decision that has since been disputed. Today, his architectural and artistic legacy includes many of Bavaria’s most important tourist attractions.
Watch the podcast video below to learn more about the Neuschwanstein castle.
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