Munich Visitor Information: Neuschwanstein

Neuschwanstein (German: Schloß Neuschwanstein, "new swan stone castle") is a late 19th century castle in Germany, near Hohenschwangau and Füssen in southwest Bavaria, not far from the Austrian border. It is said to be the most photographed building in the world, and is one of Germany's most popular tourist destinations.

Construction was started by King Ludwig II of Bavaria, also known as "Mad King Ludwig". It was named for the Swan Knight, Lohengrin, of Wagner's opera, and was designed by Christian Jank. The castle is located near Schloß Hohenschwangau, an older castle restored by Ludwig's father, Maximilian II of Bavaria. Owing to his eccentricites and his perceived use of Bavarian funds (a myth, as Ludwig actually used his own money to finance the construction of the castle), Ludwig was removed from power before the castle was completed. Soon after Ludwig's mysterious death in 1886, the castle and its amazing interior were opened to the public. Many tapestries and paintings depict scenes from the operas of Richard Wagner, a reflection of Ludwig's love for Wagner's work. However, many of the interior rooms remain undecorated; only 14 rooms were finished before Ludwig's death.

(Text and image courtesy Wikipedia)