Füssen
Füssen is a town situated along the Lech River in Bavaria near the border of Austria. It is the highest town in Bavaria at 800-1200 meters (2625-3937 feet) above sea level and two famous castles are located nearby: Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau. These pictures were taken in June 2007:
The view below Marienbrücke (Mary's Bridge). Marienbrücke offers amazing views of the side of Neuschwanstein, but I would not recommend looking down from the bridge if you are afraid of heights.
Schloss Neuschwanstein (Neuschwanstein Castle) is located above Füssen and King Ludwig II began construction in 1869. He only ruled Bavaria for 22 years, from the age of 18 until his death at the age of 40 in 1886. Two-thirds of the inside of the castle were still incomplete at the time of his death.
The name 'Neuschwanstein' came about after the death of King Ludwig II, when the castle became available to tourists. He had named the castle 'Neue Hohenschwangau.'
Füssen celebrated its 700th birthday in 1995.
Schloss Hohenschwangau (Hohenschwangau Castle) was first built sometime during the 1100s and was originally named Schwanstein. It was in ruins and rebuilt between 1538 to 1547 by Johann von Paumgartner zu Paumgarten, who renamed it Hohenschwangau. It was in ruins again when Maximillian II claimed the castle in 1839. This is the castle where Ludwig II spent much of his childhood. More information on Schloss Hohenschwangau is available here.
Take proper precautions when visiting Neuschwanstein if you, or someone with you, have difficulty with mobility. The tour inside the castle includes climbing 165 steps and going down 181 stairs. Those with difficulty walking should contact Neuschwanstein ahead of time to make arrangements.
For more information on Ludwig II and Neuschwanstein visit here.
