Lichtenstein Castle.
Introduction
The perfect romantic castle, set high in the Swabian Alb overlooking the Echaz valley, Lichtenstein Castle is a mid-19th century Neo-Gothic folly erected on medieval ruins.
History
The original medieval castle was first built around 1200. Destroyed in Reichskriegs war of 1311 and again by the city-state of Reutlingen in 1381, the castle was not reconstructed and subsequently fell to ruin. A new castle was instead erected 15 km from there in 1390.
In 1802, Duke Frederick I of Württemberg build a small hunting lodge on the ruins. In 1837, his nephew, Duke Wilhelm of Urach, Count of Württemberg, purchased the estate. Inspired by Wilhelm Hauff's novel 'Lichtenstein', he set about erecting a new medieval-style castle, one of Germany's very first Romantic castles. The construction took place between 1840 and 1842.
Opening Hours & Admission
The castle is open every day between April and October from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm. In February, March and November, it is also open on weekends from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Admission is 2 € for adults and 1 € for children. There are 30-min guided tours, which cost an extra 6 € per person (3 € for children). Special guided tours and costume tours are also available with advance reservation.
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