World-castles

Castel Trostburg,

Sacra di San Michele, Italy 🇮🇹

Sacra di San Michele is a historic abbey and fortress-like monastery located on Mount Pirchiriano in Piedmont, Italy. Built high above the valley, it overlooks the route between Italy and France and has become one of the symbols of the Piedmont region.

The abbey was founded around the late 10th century and became an important religious center during the Middle Ages. Dedicated to Michael the Archangel, it was part of a line of sacred sites connected to the cult of Saint Michael across Europe.

Over the centuries, monks, pilgrims, and travelers visited the abbey, especially those journeying along medieval pilgrimage routes. Its dramatic stone architecture and mountain setting gave it both spiritual and defensive importance.

Pena Palace (Palácio da Pena)

Sintra, Portugal

Eltz Castle, Germany 🇩🇪

Eltz Castle is one of the most famous and best-preserved medieval castles in Germany. Hidden in a forested valley above the Elzbach River, it looks much like it did hundreds of years ago.

The castle was built in the 12th century and has remained in the possession of the same noble family, the Eltz family, for more than 850 years. Unlike many European castles, it was never destroyed by war, making it a rare example of authentic medieval architecture.

During the Eltz Feud, the castle successfully resisted a long siege, demonstrating the strength of its defenses. Over the centuries, it was expanded and improved while retaining its medieval character.

Today, Eltz Castle is one of Germany’s most popular tourist attractions, admired for its towers, treasures, historic rooms, and fairy-tale appearance. It is often considered one of the most beautiful castles in Europe. 🇩🇪

Corvin Castle, Transylvania, Romania 🇹🇩

Corvin Castle, also known as Hunyadi Castle, is one of the most spectacular medieval castles in Transylvania, Romania. It was built mainly in the 15th century by John Hunyadi, one of the most influential figures in Central European history.

The castle combines Gothic, Renaissance, and defensive architecture, featuring tall towers, drawbridges, grand halls, and a large courtyard. It served both as a military fortress and a noble residence.

A famous legend claims that Vlad the Impaler, the historical figure linked to Dracula, was once held prisoner there, although historians debate the story.

Over the centuries, Corvin Castle survived wars, fires, and periods of neglect before being restored. Today, it is one of Romania’s most visited landmarks and is often ranked among the most beautiful Gothic castles in Europe.