Snapshot: Exploring the Wartburg Castle in Germany

Surrounded by lush forestry and sitting atop a precipice overlooking the town of Eisenach in the Thuringia state in Germany, this well-preserved medieval castle with Romanesque architecture throws us way back to the Middle Ages.

The Wartburg Castle is the first German castle to be designated as a UNESCO Heritage site and the hilltop castle is a prime example of a fortress during the feudal period in Central Europe. With improvements and additions throughout the years, it serves as a window into over a thousand years of German history.

The Wartburg castle was said to be first constructed in 1067 and calls the Neuenburg in the Freyburg town as sister castle. What remains of the castle now are remnants from the 12^th to the 15^th century, and the19^{th C}entury, where it underwent reconstruction. During this period, the medieval architecture was restored and complemented with new additions.

Did you know: The great German professor of theology, composer, priest, and monk, Martin Luthor was exiled at the Wartburg Castle that he translated the New Testament into German.

Today, the fortress is a showcase of strength during its peak as a military stronghold. Visitors can also go on a guided tour of the castle’s vast number of rooms to take a peek into life back then, and the must-visit room in the castle is the 12^th century Palais (the great hall) that still bears traces of its former glory in Romanesque architecture.  The ceremonial hall in the main castle building now serves as the backdrop for the famous Wartburg concerts during summer, as well as other events organized here.

Art lovers can also take a detour to the castle museum, where fine arts are celebrated. There are famous paintings, glorious sculptures, exquisite tapestries and furniture of splendid workmanship. Its art collection was set up 200 years ago, at German writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe’s recommendation, and spans eight centuries.

Did you know: During the festive December period, the castle comes alive with its historical Christmas market, reminiscent of its medieval days.

There’s no charge if you just wish to visit the castle grounds, but entry to the rooms within the castle comes with an admission charge, which varies depending on the season. Give yourself around two hours to explore the castle.

How to get there: You can get to the town of Eisenach, where the Wartburg Castle is located, in just three hours by train from Berlin, and less than two hours from Frankfurt and Leipzig.

Image credits: Wikipedia, Wartburg Castle, UNESCO