Bavaria's fairytale castles: now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a tourist magnet!
Discover the fascinating Harburg Castle, one of the best-preserved medieval complexes in Bavaria, which tells 900 years of history.

Bavaria's fairytale castles: now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a tourist magnet!
Bavaria is a true paradise for castle and palace lovers. Whether in the heart of the Alps or along picturesque rivers, the mighty witnesses to a glorious past attract not only locals but also tourists from all over the world. A particularly impressive photo series shows 26 of the most fascinating castles and palaces in the Free State, which invite you to marvel. Enjoy a look at some of the highlights!
Among these is the impressive oneHarburg Castle. It has stood majestically above the Wörnitztal for over 900 years and is one of the best-preserved medieval castles in southern Germany. Anyone who takes a romantic guided tour by candlelight will feel like they have been transported to another time. Those tooWürzburg Residencestands out with its baroque splendor. It is one of the most important baroque palaces in Europe and, with its staircase and wonderful frescoes, is a true architectural masterpiece that is also on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
The fairytale castles of Ludwig II.
They are particularly famousCastles of King Ludwig II, which have been a magnet for tourists for over 140 years. Now they are coming to fame: UNESCO has decided to designate Neuschwanstein Castle, Herrenchiemsee Castle, Linderhof Castle and the Royal House on Mount Schachen as World Heritage Sites. This decision was announced during a meeting of the World Heritage Commission in Paris, as daily news reported. After over 25 years of hard work, this step is a triumph for Bavaria.
Neuschwanstein Castle, often considered the model for Disney's Sleeping Beauty Castle, attracts over a million visitors annually. Everything about its majestic facade is reminiscent of a medieval knight's castle. TheHerrenchiemsee Castleon the other hand, a homage to the Palace of Versailles, impresses with its luxurious south wing, which houses a true King Ludwig II museum. Anyone who enjoys the magnificent gardens and works of artLinderhof CastleIf you want to marvel at it, travel to the idyllic Ammergau Alps.
Of historical treasures and modern tourism
The newly enjoyed titles not only increase the prestige of these cultural sites, but also promote tourism in the region. It should not be underestimated what a World Heritage seal can do for the reputation of a site. Bavarian Prime Minister Markus Söder commented that the castles can be described as architectural masterpieces. ZDF agrees that these historic buildings give the impression of dream scenarios. Last year, over 1.7 million people visited the castles, many even traveling from abroad.
Germany now has a total of 55 World Heritage sites, including Cologne Cathedral and the Wadden Sea. The castles of Ludwig II have earned a special place in this list thanks to their unique charm. The preservation of these sites is of great importance because the state is committed to protecting the historical treasures in the long term and reporting regularly on their condition.
At a time when sustainably preserved cultural tourism is becoming increasingly important, we are pleased that Bavaria is opening a second major chapter in its history as a travel destination. Inclusion on the UNESCO World Heritage List provides an incentive to discover the diverse beauty of the Bavarian region, be it by visiting the traditional castles and palaces or experiencing the nature of the Alps.