An unforgettable journey through the castles of chivalry
Medieval wars died down long ago, there are no knights in the past, but the spirit of medieval warriors lives on in the castles of Europe to this day.
Malbork Castle in Poland
The crusader castle standing on the banks of the Nogat River was built at the end of the eighth century. It was the seat of the Teutonic Knights. Since 1961, a museum was opened here, which contains objects of antiquity, jewelry and an interesting numismatic collection. Tourists are attracted by reconstructions of medieval battles and theatrical scenes from the knights' everyday life.
Blarney Castle in Ireland
It is located in the south of the country near the city of Cork. The castle is partially ruined, but there are beautiful gardens around it. It is open to tourists all year round.
Cardiff Castle in Great Britain
The oldest building in Wales, which was built on the ruins of an ancient Roman fortress. The last owner of the castle converted it into a Gothic mansion, with various designs in many rooms. Now it houses a historical and archaeological museum with a rich collection of exhibits.
Aragon Castle in Italy
It is located near the island of Ischia, on a small island. You can get to the castle by a stone bridge, either on foot or by taking a modern elevator. From the observation deck of the castle opens up an extraordinary view of the sea and olive plantations. On the territory of the castle are interesting to visit the Assunta Cathedral, the church Immacolata, the political prison of the Renaissance.
Gravensteen Castle in Belgium
The name of the fortress is translated as "castle of the counts" and served many counts of Flanders. The castle now houses an exhibition of ancient weapons and a prison museum with a large collection of torture instruments.
Vianden Castle in Luxembourg
This fortress was built on the remains of ancient Roman fortifications. Entrance to it was possible through 5 gates, with a suspension bridge at the main entrance. Today in the halls of the castle is reconstructed medieval setting with wax figures of the inhabitants of the fortress in ancient clothing, armor and with weapons.
Hohenwerfen Castle in Austria
It is located 40 km from Salzburg and is surrounded on all sides by mountain ranges. It was built in the 11th century to protect the pass. Since 1987, a museum with a popular exhibition of ancient weapons and costume shows have been held here. The castle offers magnificent views of the surrounding mountains, the beautiful Salzach valley and the village of Werfen.
Visiting at least one knight's castle, you can plunge into the atmosphere of the Middle Ages and see the places, which you can read about in books and see in movies.