1886 – Schloss Neuschwanstein, Bavaria

Architect: Christian Jank

neuschwanstein_lge

neuschwanstein2_lgeneuschwanstein3_lgeneuschwanstein2_lgeneuschwanstein2_lgeneuschwanstein2_lge

neuschwanstein2_lgeneuschwanstein2_lgeneuschwanstein_interior_unfinished_lgeneuschwanstein_interior_unfinished_lgeneuschwanstein_interior_unfinished_lge

neuschwanstein_interior_unfinished_lgeneuschwanstein_interior_unfinished_lge

Never completed after the mysterious death of its instigator, the eccentric Bavarian King Ludwig II in 1886, Schloss Neuschwanstein is one of the most recognisable castles in the world. Set high on a hillside with magnificent views, the Schloss was designed by theatre designer Christian Jank and draws on a variety of historical styles.

The Schloss with its picturesque towers and pale white finish was originally intended to have a 295 foot high tower in the central courtyard. This was never started and recently stone was laid in the courtyard to show the position and size of the tower’s footprint.

Much of the interior was unfinished on the King’s death and the building opened as a museum and tourist attraction three years later. This has meant that many floors remain unfinished to this day and have a plain brick finish and uncompleted stonework carvings.