<p>Nestled among the Bavarian Alps with captivating views of Alpsee Lake, Hohenschwangau Castle embodies the romantic 19th-century revival of medieval aesthetics. Built by King Maximilian II of Bavaria between 1832 and 1837 on the ruins of the 12th-century fortress Schwanstein, this ochre-yellow castle served as the childhood residence of King Ludwig II and profoundly influenced his later architectural visions, including the nearby Neuschwanstein Castle. The castle's neo-Gothic exterior, with its pointed arches and crenellated towers, harmoniously complements the dramatic alpine scenery surrounding it. Inside, visitors discover lavishly decorated rooms adorned with romantic murals depicting German legends and medieval history, particularly the story of the Swan Knight Lohengrin, which inspired the castle's name meaning "High Swan County Palace." The opulent interiors feature richly carved furniture, vibrant wall paintings, and ornate chandeliers that evoke the golden age of German romanticism. The castle's strategic hilltop position not only provided security but also offers modern visitors panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, forests, and lakes—a landscape that captivated the imagination of Bavaria's most famous kings and continues to enchant visitors today.</p>
