Germany’s Neuschwanstein Castle is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site Germany’s Neuschwanstein Castle is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Germany‘s Neuschwanstein Castle – which served as the inspiration for Disneyland’s Sleeping Beauty castle – is now officially a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Added to the list on 12 July during the 47th session of the World Heritage Committee, the famed castle, which is among Germany’s most-visited tourist attractions, is part of The Palaces of King Ludwig II of Bavaria UNESCO property. This also includes Linderhof Palace, Herrenchiemsee Palace, and the King’s House on Schachen.

Scattered across Bavaria’s alpine region, all four grand palace complexes were built between 1864 and 1886. King Ludwig II took inspiration from Wartburg Castle in Versailles, German fairy tales, and Wagner’s operas, and the palaces ‘reflect the romantic and eclectic spirit of the era’ while ‘showcasing historicist styles and advanced 19th-century techniques’.

Wagner’s influence can be seen in murals across Neuschwanstein, with scenes from Tristan and Isolde in the bedroom and Tannhäuser in the study. At Linderhof, Ludwig had an artificial cave built – the Venus Grotto – which is home to a large painting of Tannhäuser with Venus.

Minister-President of Bavaria Markus Söder said of the news, “Bavaria is a hospitable land, and our royal castles are a magnet for visitors from all over the world. Neuschwanstein, in particular, is Bavaria’s quintessential landmark. The fairy-tale castle combines great art and culture with a touch of kitsch and cliché.

“At the sight of the castle, some people worldwide might think of Disney – but no: Neuschwanstein is and remains the original from Bavaria. The recognition by UNESCO is a great joy, but also a responsibility: We want to preserve our cultural heritage and maintain it for future generations.”

So far, 26 new properties have been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list. The 47th session of the World Heritage Committee is set to finish on 16 July.

More information: whc.unesco.org

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