![]() Although it’s unlikely that Vlad ever visited Bran Castle, it’s easy to see how the legend stuck, especially during the atmospheric annual, late-night Halloween party. Often referred to as “Dracula’s Castle,” this 57-room medieval fortress is said to be the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s mythical count, based on the ruthless, real-life, 15th-century ruler Vlad the Impaler. Among several options for guided tours, you can finish with a glass of Clos de Chillon wine. By car, the castle is about 2.5 miles from Montreux, and it’s open year round, except for the last week of December. Public transport options to the Chillon include a 75-minute train ride from Geneva three times a day and a direct ferry from Lausanne in the morning that takes 90 minutes. A visit there in 1816 inspired him to write the epic poem “The Prisoner of Chillon.” It’s based on the story of Francois Bonivard, a political prisoner. Gothic vaults from that time are visible in the prison.Īnd part of the appeal of this castle is its association with Lord Byron. Like many castles, additions and occupation continued after the Middle Ages, but the castle got its start in the mid-13th century. Part of that appeal is its location: on an island in Lake Geneva, which acts as a natural moat. Not simply the most popular castle in Switzerland, Château de Chillon is also the most-visited historic building in the country. Here’s how to visit 14 of most impressive medieval castles in Europe and the United Kingdom. They all were started during the medieval era (aka Middle Ages), which is about 500 to 1450 C.E. ![]() The following 14 castles illustrate the range of architecture on view. So while there is no shortage of castles to explore, some are decidedly more intriguing than others. Many European castles are scenic ruins but plenty have survived intact. Wales has more than 600 castles (the most per square mile). In some countries, you can hardly throw a stone without hitting a castle. (Alas, photos were not allowed.) That lack of privacy at the privy underscored the communal nature of castle life. But what captured her attention was down a slim stone hall: The latrine had double-, if not triple-, wide seating. It featured the living room or great room of the place. At the least, touring one will leave you grateful for the mod cons of 21st-century indoor life.Īn example from Ross Castle in Ireland, which an AFAR editor recently explored: After winding her way up corkscrew staircases, she reached the top floor. When your agenda includes visiting medieval castles-from the mighty feudal strongholds of Scotland to Germany’s fairy-tale-like creations-imagination helps to conjure up the smells, draftiness, and lack of central heating. Whether it’s seeing a Renaissance sculpture or enjoying street food in Singapore, there’s no substitute for being there when it comes to travel.
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