Heidelberg Castle

Heidelberg, Germany

Heidelberg Castle is a famous ruin and one of the the most important Renaissance structures north of the Alps. The rich and eventful history of Heidelberg Palace began when the counts palatine of the Rhine, – later prince electors – established their residence at Heidelberg. The earliest castle structure was built before 1214 and later expanded into two castles circa 1294; however, in 1537, a lightning-bolt destroyed the upper castle. Until the Thirty Years’ War, Heidelberg Palace boasted one of the most notable ensembles of buildings in the Holy Roman Empire. The present structures had been expanded by 1650, before damage by later wars and fires. In 1764, another lightning-bolt caused a fire which destroyed some rebuilt sections.

The 19th century brought a new wave of admiration: a sight both terrible and beautiful, the ruins epitomised the spirit of the Romantic movement. Heidelberg Palace was elevated to a national monument. The imposing edifice and its famous garden, the Hortus Palatinus, became shrouded in myth. The garden, the last work commissioned by the prince electors, was never completed. Some remaining landscaped terraces and other vestiges hint at the awe-inspiring scale of this ambitious project. In the 17th century, it was celebrated as the “eighth wonder of the world”. While time has taken its toll, Heidelberg Palace’s fame lives on to this day.

Heidelberg Castle is located 80 metres up the northern part of the Königstuhl hillside, and thereby dominates the view of the old downtown. Set against the deep green forests on the north flank of Königstuhl hill, the red sandstone ruins tower majestically over the Neckar valley.

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Details

Founded: 13th century
Category: Castles and fortifications in Germany
Historical period: Hohenstaufen Dynasty (Germany)

Rating

4.7/5 (based on Google user reviews)

User Reviews

Scott Green (8 months ago)
Great attraction. There is a train to the top, I learned this after walking up the dang hill. Wonderful views of the city. The architecture and decor are awesome.. The statues have amazing details carved into them. The garden is huge. The pharmacy museum was very interesting and offers signage in multiple languages to include English. Definitely worth taking family when they visit. Bonus, it's open on Sundays.
Ling Watson (8 months ago)
If you like explore castles, this will be educational and fun. Starting with a hike up the castle is highly recommended! It made me appreciate so much modern amenities - there is a cable car you can purchase to go up and down as well (€9 will get a person up and down the hill for the castle). The grounds outside the castle is fun to walk around simply for the view it offers of the town. Once up at the castle level, get ticket to the courtyard. It can be included in the cable car. It will take maybe an hour or hour and half but seeing the massive wine barrel - it will be the biggest ever! and learning about the start of medicine/ pharmacy in Germany will be a fun experience in the museum inside. Wander around to the front of the castle the view is great not just the old town below but also the castle structure itself. Happy travels
Darshan Kachhadiya (8 months ago)
Heidelberg Palace is an iconic landmark situated in Heidelberg, Germany. This majestic palace, perched on a hill overlooking the city, offers a rich blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty. With its stunning facades, intricate interiors, and sprawling gardens, the palace provides a captivating experience for visitors. Don't miss the chance to explore the Great Barrel and the ruins of the upper castle, which offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply seeking a picturesque spot, Heidelberg Palace is a must-visit destination that will leave you in awe.
Kalpana Dinesh (9 months ago)
Very beautiful castle, went up by the funicular train. The view was really awesome. Could view the whole town from there too. There is a pharmaceutical museum too. There was a huge wine cask kept for viewing of tourists
Samer Fahed (9 months ago)
It’s an amazing castle, I will tell any one about my visit there, the view from castle above the city is beautiful. If you would visit it, try to go before 5:30 pm, because the bus from down to castle through the mountain will close and last trip to enter it will on 5:30. It costs 14€ or 9€ for adults to buy a ticket. Garden around the castle is also nice. Enjoy ? (The stairs are long if you want to walk up, you can go up walking but maybe will be difficult for some people)
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