Nestled between Moselle and Trier, the medieval castle of Eltz is one of the most photographed castles on social media. Instagram in particular. Thick green forests surround the castle, only adding to the fairytale scenario. The region the castle lies in is known for its Reisling wine production making the area a peak point on the traveler’s list.
The castle has been mentioned in several battles between people who ruled the land, however, it has never been destroyed and remains in the possession of the Eltz family until this day.
A Long History of War
The Great Hall inside Edinburgh Castle was made for King James IV and was completed in 1511, in order to be used for banquets. There are numerous tourist attractions available for the visitor. The most popular paid tourist attraction in Scotland include cafes and restaurants, numerous shops, and historical displays.
An educational center in the Queen Anne Building runs events for schools and educational groups and even employs re-enactors in costume and with period-correct weaponry. Another feature is the One O'Clock Gun, fired every day at one P.M., except for Sundays, Good Friday, and Christmas Day. The purpose? Originally, it told ships on the water what time it was.
Bonus Castle: Swallow's Nest – Gaspra, Ukraine
Instead of protection, this castle is little more than a two-bedroom home that was built purely because the original designer – a doctor to the Tsar – loved the look. It's barely a castle due to its small size, only twenty meters long by ten meters wide.
The original design included a foyer, a guest room, stairs that lead to the tower, and two more bedrooms on two different levels within the tower. While many of those details were left out, the building does have an observation deck ringing the building, which provides a view of the sea and the distant shoreline.
Germany's True Gem
It was first built in the 9th century, designed to be a simple home. In the later years of the 17th century, over 15 million Euros were invested in the castle, preserving its unique architectural features. It's open to the public where the kitchen and the treasury, decorated in gold and silver artifacts, can be visited.
Up until 1992, an engraving of the castle was used on the german Mark note, and its exterior was used in several Hollywood movies. The Eltz Castle is a symbol in german culture alongside other great German brands such as B.M.W and Nivea.
Eilean Donan – Dornie, Scotland
One of the most magnificent spots in the Scottish Highland hills is for sure the magical castle of Eilean Donan. Besides featuring in the 1986 movie, "Highlander", it's a must-see destination. Located on an island between the three famous lakes Loch Duich, Loch Long, and Loch Alsh, Eilean Donan is a true gem.
The 13th century is when it was first established, however, the original structure of the castle had to be rebuilt in the 20th century, following the Jacobite rebellions.