The Heidelberg Castle, Germany is one of the foremost tourist attractions in Germany frequented by visitors from all across the world. It is believed that the first building of the Heidelberg Castle was built by Prince Elector Ruprecht III way back in the 15th century. This particular stone building has a very unassuming look. Over the period of years, a lot of additions were made. However the castle was not well maintained and that led to its ruined condition. But the ruins of the Heidelberg Castle also had a mesmerizing effect on the minds of visitors. Poets and romantics found something very enamoring about the ruins of Heidelberg Castle, Germany. Even though a royal building was constructed opposite to the Ruprecht building by Prince Elector Philipp, the real credit for converting the fortress to a castle goes to Prince Electors of 16th and 17th century. The palaces built by Ottheinrich and Friedrich IV occupy a very important position in German architectural history. They are indeed very impressive and so is the "English Building" built by Friedrich V.
After lightning struck the Heidelberg Castle, Germany in 1764, it was damaged. The stones of the castle started being used by the commoners for construction of their own houses. Towards the beginning of the 19th century, Count Charles de Graimberg tried to preserve the Heidelberg Castle, Germany. Much later in the year 1934, the King's Hall was added to it. Currently the hall is used for hosting theatrical performances as well as banquets. In the summer months, Heidelberg Castle Festival is celebrated each year. Visitors are sure to have a fantastic time if they can make it to this place at this time of the year. The concerts, musicals, operas and theatrical performances put up by in the courtyard of the Heidelberg Castle, Germany are thoroughly enjoyed by one and all. Yet another big attraction is the biggest wine barrel in the world. Built in the year 1751 for the cellar of the castle, it is nine yards long and eight yards wide.
The Heidelberg Castle, Germany remains open everyday from eight in the morning to five in the evening and only from December 24th to 31st; it closes at one in the afternoon. The "Great Grotto" with its beautifully decorated walls and the pond with the sand stone sculpture of "father Rhine" in the castle gardens will surely impress any onlooker.
travel.mapsofworld.com provides extensive online information on Heidelberg Castle, Germany.
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