15 Most INCREDIBLE Castles in the World
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00:00Join me as we explore 15 of the most iconic castles, starting with number 15, Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany.
00:07Neuschwanstein Castle is perched on a hill near Füssen in southwest Bavaria in Germany,
00:13and it epitomizes picturesque beauty.
00:16Commissioned by Ludwig II of Bavaria as a tribute to his muse, Richard Wagner,
00:21construction started in 1869, but was never completed. Ludwig lived there for only 172 days.
00:27The castle's design was inspired by Wagner's opera Lohengrin,
00:32features a romanticized medieval aesthetic with towers, turrets, frescoes, and intricate woodwork.
00:37It blends Gothic Revival, Romanesque, and Byzantine styles, creating a dreamlike atmosphere.
00:43Inside the throne room has a stunning chandelier and a detailed mosaic floor, notably lacking a throne.
00:50The singer's hall, designed for performances, displays murals from Wagner's operas,
00:55reflecting medieval banquet halls, and the king's bedroom, styled in traditional Gothic features and ornate canopy bed,
01:01plus paintings narrating the opera Tristan and Isolde.
01:05Set against the Bavarian Alps and overlooking the Polat Gorge, Neuschwanstein is one of Germany's top tourist attractions,
01:11drawing over 1.4 million visitors annually.
01:14It's inspired numerous global castles, none of which have quite matched its allure.
01:20Number 14. Castillo San Felipe de Moro, Puerto Rico
01:25Castillo San Felipe de Moro, commonly known as El Moro, is a historic fortress in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
01:32Construction began in 1539 by Spanish settlers under the orders of King Charles V to protect San Juan Bay from sea attacks,
01:39and it was named after King Philip II of Spain.
01:43Expanded over 250 years, it became one of the largest structures in the Caribbean.
01:48El Moro's architecture is a display of Spanish colonial military engineering and design,
01:53and it's located on an outcrop at the entrance of San Juan Bay.
01:57It offers expansive views of the Atlantic Ocean and a significant defensive advantage.
02:01The fortress is constructed over six levels and features thick walls, sentry boxes, ramps, dungeons, and a labyrinth of tunnels,
02:09making it well-suited to withstand cannon fire.
02:11Throughout its history, El Moro has been critical in defending the island during several conflicts,
02:16including attacks by the English forces led by Sir Francis Drake in 1595 and Sir George Clifford in 1598,
02:23a Dutch assault in 1625 and the Spanish-American War in 1898,
02:28which culminated in the Treaty of Paris, where Spain ceded Puerto Rico into the United States.
02:33It's now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and part of the San Juan National Historic Site.
02:38El Moro is one of Puerto Rico's most visited tourist attractions.
02:41Visitors can explore its grounds, which include ancient battlements, tunnels, and barracks,
02:46and offer a unique vantage point over the Atlantic and Old San Juan,
02:50providing a vivid sense of life during colonial times.
02:58The Amber Fortress, also known as Amber Palace, is perched on a hill in the Ara Valley Range
03:03overlooking Mauta Lake near Jaipur in Rajasthan, India.
03:07It was constructed in 1592 by Rajahman Singh I, a trusted general of Mughal Emperor Akbar.
03:14The fortress was expanded and renovated by successive rulers.
03:17It was crafted from red sandstone and white marble, and it features a blend of Hindu and Mughal architectural elements,
03:23evident in its fortifications, intricate carvings, and delicate frescoes.
03:27The grandeur of this fortress is apparent from the steep approach,
03:31traditionally made on elephant back, leading to the main entrance, the Shurajpal or Sun Gate.
03:37This gate opens to the primary courtyard where the Maharaja's soldiers assembled, designed with defense in mind.
03:43The most notable part of the fort is the Shishmahal or Mirror Palace,
03:47adorned with thousands of tiny mirrors on its walls and ceiling,
03:51creating a stunning effect, especially under candlelight.
03:54Another significant feature is the Sukha Niwas or Hall of Pleasure,
03:57which incorporates an indigenous cooling system with water channels that provide natural air conditioning.
04:03The castle is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site,
04:06and Amber Fort is one of India's most visited tourist attractions.
04:09It serves as an example of the opulent lifestyles of Rajasthan's past rulers,
04:14and it stands as a monument to the region's rich culture and architectural heritage.
04:23The Alcazar of Segovia, situated in the city of Segovia in Spain, is one of the country's most iconic castles,
04:29famed for its distinctive ship-like shape at the confluence of the Arezma and Clamores rivers.
04:34This fortress palace is recognized as one of Segovia's most striking landmarks.
04:39It's believed to have origins dating back to the Roman times.
04:42The Alcazar's first documented reference happens in the 12th century during King Alfonso VI's reign.
04:48It was initially built as a fortress, and it served various roles throughout the centuries,
04:52including as a royal palace, state prison, royal artillery college, and a military academy.
04:57This history is reflected in the architectural diversity here,
05:01featuring Romanesque, Gothic, Mudéjar, and Renaissance styles from successive expansions.
05:06Its fairytale exterior, with its turrets and spires,
05:10leads to a courtyard that opens into the palace's impressively decorated rooms.
05:15Inside, the Hall of the Throne boasts a splendid coffered ceiling and intricate tapestries that illustrate the region's history.
05:22The Hall of the Kings features a statue of Castilian monarchs,
05:25and the chapels adorned with exquisite stained-glass windows and a grand altar,
05:30highlighting the building's religious significance during its time as a royal residence.
05:34Moreover, it's played a pivotal role in Spanish history.
05:37It was here that Queen Isabel I was crowned before her marriage to Ferdinand II of Aragon,
05:42an event crucial to the unification of Spain.
05:45The castle's strategic and ceremonial importance has definitely made it an integral part of Spain's historical narrative.
05:56Edinburgh Castle, one of the world's most famous and recognizable fortresses,
06:00dominates the skyline of Edinburgh in Scotland.
06:03Perched on Castle Rock, a volcanic plug formed around 350 million years ago,
06:08its strategic location has made it a critical defensive stronghold throughout Scottish history.
06:13Activity at the site dates back to the Iron Age, with evidence of early habitation.
06:17The first recorded mention of a castle on this site dates back to the 7th century, known then as Dinaidan.
06:23It's been called Edinburgh Castle since the medieval period, though, a time of great turbulence for Scotland.
06:29A significant chapter in its history was during the War of Scottish Independence in the late 13th and early 14th century,
06:34when it was captured and recaptured by English and Scottish forces multiple times.
06:39The castle's defenders are celebrated for their bravery in repelling invaders.
06:43Edinburgh Castle also served as a royal residence and houses the honours of Scotland,
06:48the Scottish crown jewels, including the crown, sceptre, and the sword of state.
06:52These artefacts, among the oldest in Europe, are displayed in the Crown Room, alongside the Stone of Destiny,
06:57an ancient coronation stone used in the inauguration of Scottish monarchs.
07:01Today, though, Edinburgh Castle is a major tourist attraction, drawing over 2 million people annually.
07:07It continues to be a focal point of city life, hosting the Edinburgh Military,
07:11an annual series of military performances on the Castle Esplanade.
07:15Its rich history also is intertwined with local legends, too,
07:18with many believing that the spirits of its former residents still haunt its corridors.
07:2310. Himeji Castle
07:26Himeji Castle, located in the Hyogo Prefecture in Japan, is one of the best-preserved ancient structures in the country,
07:33and a prime example of Japanese castle architecture.
07:36Known as the White Heron Castle for its brilliant white exterior and bird-like silhouette,
07:41it's played a significant role in Japan's history.
07:44The castle's origins date back to about 1333, when Akamatsu Norimura, a samurai, built a fort on Himayama Hill.
07:52Over the centuries, it was expanded into a complex fortress, with a highly effective defensive design.
07:57The main keep, or tenshu, is a six-storey wooden structure surrounded by moats and defensive walls, containing 83 rooms.
08:04The approach to the keep is maze-like.
08:07It's designed to confuse and slow down the invaders, featuring multiple gates, narrow passageways, and dead ends.
08:13High stone walls and numerous loopholes for archers and gunners made the castle nearly impregnable.
08:19Its white plaster walls are made from a mixture of slaked lime, shell ash, and fibers, providing fire resistance to the wooden frame.
08:26The roofs are adorned with ornate tilework and mythical tiger-headed fish, which are believed to ward off fires and evil spirits.
08:33Inside the main keep, wooden floors and narrow staircases lead to the top floor, which offers expansive views of Himeji City and the surrounding landscape.
08:42The castle also has various artifacts, including samurai armor, weapons, and historical documents.
08:47Plus, Himeji Castle has endured through many challenging periods, including the Meiji Restoration and the bombings of the Second World War.
08:54It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993.
08:58Today, Himeji Castle is a major tourist destination, and it hosts events like the annual Cherry Blossom Viewing Festival, where its grounds are adorned with blooming sakura trees.
09:13Krak de Chevalier is a formidable fortress located on a hilltop near the village of Al-Husayn in Syria, linking the Mediterranean coast with the country's interior.
09:22Originally, it was constructed in 1031 by the Emir of Aleppo, and was captured and significantly enhanced by the Knights Hospitaller in 1142.
09:31They transformed it into one of the strongest castles of the Crusades, serving both as a launch pad for military operations and a defense against Muslim forces.
09:39The castle's architecture showcases the sophistication of medieval military engineering.
09:44It consists of two concentric layers of defenses, an outer wall dotted with towers, and an inner wall featuring a massive central keep.
09:51The outer walls, some up to 33 meters thick, were built to withstand siege weaponry and assaults.
09:57A key feature of the castle is its advanced water management system, which includes large cisterns for rainwater storage, ensuring a reliable water supply during sieges.
10:06Inside contains grand halls, chapels, and living quarters that illustrate its dual function as a military stronghold and a residence.
10:14The Hall of Knights, notable for its vaulted ceilings and spacious design, offers a glimpse into the daily lives of its occupants.
10:21The fortress remained a crucial stronghold in the Crusades until about 1271, when it fell into the Mamluks after a lengthy siege by Sultan Babar's.
10:30Now, despite its capture, it continued to serve the military stronghold under subsequent rulers,
10:34but today, Krak de Chevalier is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its significance and architectural excellence.
10:41However, recent political turmoil has put the site at risk of further damage, and it's hoped it will be preserved as a valued historical landmark.
10:49Number 8. Kalmar Castle in Sweden
10:52Kalmar Castle, located in the southeastern city of Kalmar in Sweden, is a historic fortress with origins tracing back to the 12th century.
11:00Dubbed the Key to the Kingdom, it's been a symbol of royal power, a strategic military stronghold, and a site of significant political events.
11:08The initial construction of a defensive tower happened in the 1180s to protect against pirate raids.
11:13Over the centuries, the structure was expanded into a comprehensive castle, reaching its zenith during the 16th century, under the reigns of Gustav Vasa and his sons.
11:22This era saw the transformation of the castle into a Renaissance palace, marked by enhancements like high, robust walls, rounded corners, and a vast moat.
11:31Its architecture is a blend of a medieval fortress and a Renaissance palace.
11:36While the exterior retains its formidable defensive characteristics, including stone walls, a deep moat, and towers, the interior showcases the elegance of the Renaissance.
11:45The castle's interiors are adorned with ornate decorations, grand halls, and intricate wooden carvings.
11:51And the strategic location overlooking the Kalmar Strait is a vital maritime route in the Baltic Sea, as historically made it a key military asset.
11:59It played a central role in various conflicts, notably the Kalmar War between Denmark and Sweden from 1611 to 1613,
12:07and despite numerous sieges and battles, the castle remains remarkably close to its original design.
12:12Today, it serves as a major tourist destination, and also hosts a variety of cultural events, including medieval festivals, concerts, and exhibitions, making its rich history accessible to all.
12:23Moving on to number 7, the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes.
12:28The Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes, located on the Greek island of Rhodes, is a quintessential example of medieval architecture, and an example of the island's rich history.
12:39Also known as the Castello, this fortress became the headquarters of the Knights Hospitaller, a medieval Catholic military order that governed Rhodes for over two centuries.
12:48Originally built as a Byzantine citadel in the late 7th century, the structure gained prominence when the Knights Hospitaller took control in 1309,
12:56transforming it into a grand palace that served as both the residence of the Grand Master, the order's highest-ranking official, and the administrative center of their governance.
13:04The architecture here is predominantly Gothic, and it reflects the military significance of the era.
13:09It features a rectangular plan with fortified walls, imposing towers designed to withstand sieges,
13:15and the main entrance opens to a large courtyard with arcade galleries, providing archers with strategic vantage points.
13:21Inside, the palace blends Gothic and Renaissance styles, evidenced in its grand halls, chambers, and corridors.
13:27Key areas include the Hall of the Grand Council, where strategic decisions were made, and the Grand Master's private apartments, which showcase luxurious furnishings.
13:36During its peak, the palace was a center of political and military power in the Eastern Med, serving as a base for naval explorations and as a defensive point against Ottoman expansion.
13:46It was extensively restored and partially reconstructed during the Italian occupation in the 20th century, and the palace is now a museum and a major tourist attraction.
13:55Visitors from around the world come to explore its history and the legacy of the Knights Hospitaller on the island.
14:016. The Forbidden City, Beijing, China
14:05The Forbidden City is right in the middle of Beijing, China, and it's pretty famous.
14:09It was the home to the government hub for Chinese emperors for almost 500 years, from the Ming Dynasty through to the Qing Dynasty.
14:16This place is huge, about 180 acres, and it holds the titles for the world's largest ancient palatial structure.
14:23It's also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated for its deep history, stunning architecture, and rich culture.
14:29Construction kicked off in 1406 by the Yongle Emperor, a big name in the Ming Dynasty, and it wrapped up in 1420, with a whopping million people having worked on it.
14:38The complex is packed with around 1,000 buildings and around 9,000 rooms, all surrounded by a massive wall and broad moat.
14:46The whole layout was carefully planned to line up with traditional Chinese feng shui, running along a north-south axis.
14:52The Forbidden City splits into two main areas, the outer court and the inner court.
14:57The outer was all about the pomp and circumstance, think big state events and where the emperor held his court.
15:03It's home to the Hall of Supreme Harmony, where all the big ceremonies went down.
15:07The Hall of Central Harmony and the Hall of Preserving Harmony.
15:11The inner court was more private, where the emperor and his family actually lived and ran the government.
15:16This part includes the Palace of Heavenly Purity, the Hall of Union, and the Palace of Earthly Tranquility.
15:22And don't forget the Imperial Garden. It's a tranquil spot with pavilions, rocks, and old trees.
15:28The whole place is stunning with its symmetrical design.
15:31Golden roofs, red walls, and those yellow tiles on the roofs?
15:34Yep, they were meant to show the emperor's special connection to that color.
15:38Oh, and the name Forbidden City comes from how exclusive it was.
15:41Only the emperor, his close circle, and some officials could even get in there.
15:45Everyone else? Nope, not allowed.
15:47But that all changed in 1925 after the Qing Dynasty fell.
15:51It turned a palace into a museum, and suddenly everyone could check out its treasures.
15:55Now it's packed with Chinese art, ceramics, and paintings.
15:58All historical bits and pieces, pulling in millions of people every year.
16:07Castillo de Chapultepec, on Chapultepec Hill in the heart of Mexico City, is a historic castle.
16:13That's one of the most important historical sites in the city.
16:16With origins dating back to the Viceroy of New Spain, construction began on it in 1785 under the orders of the Viceroy.
16:23Who saw it as a summer retreat for the Spanish colonial rulers?
16:27The castle's design, which is believed to be a collaboration between Spanish engineer Francisco Bambatelli
16:32and Mexican architect Manuel Agustin Mascaro, showcases a blend of Baroque and neoclassical architectural styles.
16:39It took much longer to complete than originally planned, though, because of the Mexican War of Independence.
16:44And following the country's independence in 1821, the castle underwent several transformations.
16:49In 1883, it became the site of the Mexican Military Academy,
16:53and would then go on to play a significant role during the Mexican-American War.
16:56In 1847, it was the scene of the Battle of Chapultepec, where young Mexican cadets,
17:01famously known as the Niños Heroes, defended the fortress against the U.S. forces.
17:06In 1864, during the Second Mexican Empire, Emperor Maximilian I and Empress Carlota made the castle their official residence,
17:14extensively remodeling it to match European palatial standards.
17:17Post the empire's fall in 1867, the castle served various roles,
17:22including the presidential residence under President Porfirio Diaz, who hosted the official state functions here.
17:28It is now designated as a National Museum of History in 1944.
17:32It now showcases Mexico's extensive history from pre-Columbian times to the Mexican Revolution.
17:38Highlights include the Hall of Mirrors, inspired by Versailles,
17:41and Maximilian's apartments, preserved in their 19th-century splendor.
17:464. Prague Castle in Czechia
17:49Prague Castle, situated in Prague, Czechia, has roots dating back to the 9th century.
17:54Originally, it was a wooden fortress.
17:56It has evolved into a vast stone complex, showcasing a mix of architectural styles,
18:00including Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Modern.
18:04St. Vitus Cathedral, one of the castle's oldest and most iconic structures, epitomizes the Gothic architecture.
18:10Construction began in 1344 under King Charles IV, and took nearly 600 years to complete.
18:16Today, it stands as a centerpiece of the castle, distinguished by its towering spires,
18:20intricate stained glass, and elaborate stone carvings.
18:23It also houses significant artifacts, such as the crown jewels of Bohemia.
18:27Another key structure is the Old Royal Palace, dating back to the 12th century.
18:31Its Wladyslaw Hall, known for its unique ribbed vaulting, hosted coronation banquets, markets,
18:37and even indoor jousting tournaments, making it one of Europe's largest and most significant medieval halls.
18:42The castle gardens and courtyards, including the 16th century Royal Garden with its Renaissance design
18:48and the Singing Fountain, are popular among tourists for their stunning views over Prague.
18:52Today, though, Prague Castle serves as the official residence of the President of the Czech Republic,
18:57and it attracts millions of visitors annually.
19:00It's not only a symbol of history, but it also houses vast collections of artworks,
19:04continuing to enchant guests with its rich history and cultural significance.
19:093. The Khasar of Ait Ben Haddou in Morocco
19:13The Khasar of Ait Ben Haddou, nestled in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains in Morocco,
19:18stands as an example of traditional Moroccan earthen architecture.
19:22This fortified village, or Khasar, has roots dating back to at least the 17th century,
19:26and was strategically located along the old caravan route between the Sahara Desert and Marrakech.
19:32Constructed from a mix of earth and straw, sun-dried into bricks, and coated with mud plaster,
19:37the buildings exhibit a distinctive reddish-brown hue.
19:40These structures are usually two or three stories high, with flat roofs and geometric patterns on their exteriors,
19:46and the layout here was meticulously planned for both defense and communal living.
19:50Surrounded by a defensive wall featuring corner towers and a gate,
19:54the village layout, a maze of narrow alleyways, staircases, and communal areas,
19:58including a mosque, an inn, and a granary, was designed to both confuse potential invaders and foster community.
20:04Ait Ben Haddou has gained international fame as a popular filming location for movies and TV shows,
20:10appearing in classics like Lawrence of Arabia and Gladiator, as well as the series Game of Thrones.
20:15This exposure has transformed it into a sought-after tourist destination.
20:19With its increased popularity, significant efforts are underway to preserve the site.
20:23Restoration projects aim to maintain the integrity of these ancient buildings
20:27while updating the facilities for residents and visitors,
20:30ensuring that this place continues to captivate and enchant visitors from around the world.
20:40So, arguably the most famous and recognizable castle on the planet,
20:44Sleeping Beauty's Castle, which was the centerpiece of Disneyland in Anaheim, California,
20:49is also one of the newest, having opened on July 17th, 1955.
20:53Featured at the beginning of virtually every Disney movie that's been released since then
20:58and welcoming every guest into the park,
21:00this inspiration for its design came from various European castles,
21:04in particular the Neuschwanstein Castle.
21:06It was designed by imagineer Herb Reimann and stands at 77 feet or about 23.5 meters.
21:11It uses an optical illusion known as forced perspective to make it appear taller.
21:15The upper levels of the castle are also smaller in scale compared to the lower levels,
21:20which further enhances that illusion.
21:22In a romantic gothic style, it features details such as turrets, spires, and stained glass windows,
21:28and it's surrounded by a moat adding to its charm.
21:30And of course, at night, the castle is illuminated with lights and projections,
21:34creating a visual spectacle.
21:36This castle also has a walkthrough attraction, which opened in 1957.
21:40This now allows guests to explore the interior
21:42and experience scenes from the 1959 animated film Sleeping Beauty.
21:46The walkway has displays that tell the story of Princess Aurora
21:49and her encounter with the evil fairy Maleficent
21:52and her eventual awakening by Prince Philip's kiss.
21:55Throughout its history, Sleeping Beauty's castle has undergone a number of refurbishments
21:59and updates to enhance it.
22:01The largest of these in 2005 saw the refurbishment in preparation for Disneyland's 50th anniversary,
22:06including the addition of new decorations, improved lighting,
22:09and the restoration of original elements to ensure the castle remains an enchanting centerpiece.
22:19So the Tower of London, which is officially known as
22:22His Majesty's Royal Palace and Fortress of the Tower of London,
22:25is on the north bank of the River Thames in central London in the UK,
22:29and it's played a central role in English history for nearly a thousand years,
22:33serving as a royal palace, prison, armory, treasury, and fortress.
22:38It dates back to 1066 following the Norman conquest of England.
22:42William the Conqueror ordered the construction of the White Tower,
22:45which gives the entire complex its name,
22:47and completed it in 1078,
22:49which was intended to establish Norman power and protect against uprisings.
22:53Its structure, with walls up to 15 feet thick and 90 feet high,
22:57symbolized the power of the new rulers,
22:59and the architectural design of the White Tower was influenced by Norman military architecture.
23:04Over the centuries, the Tower of London expanded significantly.
23:07Subsequent monarchs added the outer walls, defensive towers, and additional buildings,
23:11and its role over time also saw it being used as a royal residence,
23:14starting with Henry III and Edward I,
23:17who transformed it into a grand palace with luxurious living quarters.
23:21Most famously, though, was the Tower's role as a prison.
23:24The phrase,
23:25Sent to the Tower,
23:26became synonymous with fate of many high-profile prisoners,
23:29including monarchs, nobles, and political enemies of leaders.
23:33Anne Boleyn was held there by Henry VIII,
23:35and so was Sir Thomas More and Lady Jane Grey, who was once the Queen.
23:39It's also known for being where the crown jewels are kept,
23:42an enduring beacon of the monarchy,
23:44and visitors often go to see the Yeoman Warders,
23:46commonly known as the Beefeaters,
23:48who have guarded the fortress since the Tudor period.
23:51These ceremonial guardians not only protect the Tower,
23:53but also serve as tour guides,
23:55sharing the rich history and legends associated with this amazing site.
23:59Thanks for watching, everyone. I'll see you next time.
24:02Thank you to our channel members.