Castles are fascinating places – here are a few you can visit if you want to feel like royalty
[dropcap]F[/dropcap]or many years, the phrase “Once upon a time” has been a key to unlock the gates to an enchanting fantasy world for children. This world is one of brave princes and beautiful princesses living in magical castles.
The good news is that the castles are still as magical as ever and await your visit. You can admire them from a distance, go inside and walk in the footsteps of kings and queens or even sleep in them.
Probably the most famous castle in the world is Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria, Germany.
As castles go, it is not very old but the interior is the ultimate fantasy world. It was the brainchild of a mad king who built it to pay homage to renowned German composer Richard Wagner.
This castle is visited by 1.3 million people every year.
Hollywood Gets in on the Act
Fantasy worlds are not necessarily confined to once upon a time. They are created even today.
The movie cameras may roll but the castle has an important role to play.
Harry Potter first weaved his magic in Alnwick Castle in Northumberland, England. It is also the place to go if you want to see what a garden looks like after 40 million pounds has been spent on it.
Another one for your list is Dromoland Castle in Ireland, where many people go to create their own fairy tales. This castle has been turned into a five-star hotel, golf course and all, and is now a very popular place for the rich and famous to tie the knot.
Castles with Haunting Beauty
There are thousands of castles across the world and several have been the scene of bloody battles and murders. It is no wonder that so many are reported to be haunted. One castle with a particularly interesting ghost has a very fitting name.
It is called the Chillingham Castle, reportedly one of the most haunted in Britain.
The star performer among the ghosts here is a little blue boy who hangs out in the pink room. Go check him out, if you have the nerve.
Castles, Castles Everywhere
Europe has more than its share of fascinating castles but so have many other continents. In the city of Matsumoto, Japan, is Matsumoto Castle. It is nicknamed Crow Castle because the walls are black.
A moat with swans and ducks surrounds Matsumoto Castle. However, they say if you visit in winter the falling snow turns the walls white.
Rediscover the fantasy world inside you. Forget about building castles in the air. Book a ticket and enter a mediaeval wonderland.
By Igert le Roux
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