Forggensee-for-history-lovers: medieval-castles-and-ruins-in-the-round
April 11, 2025
Forggensee, a picturesque lake located in Bavaria's Allgäu region, is not only a paradise for lovers of water sports and beautiful landscapes. It is also a place that will delight history enthusiasts, especially those fascinated by the medieval era. The surroundings of Forggensee hide real treasures of defensive architecture, which will take us back to the times of knights, ladies of the court and the turbulent history of feudal principalities. One of the finest examples of medieval architecture in the region is Hohes Schloss in Füssen - a majestic castle that towers over the area and invites you to discover the secrets of the past. In this article, we will take you on a fascinating journey through the centuries, discovering the charms and secrets of this unique place that combines the beauty of nature with the richness of history.
Ad
Hohes Schloss - a a pearl of medieval architecture
Hohes Schloss, or High Castle, is undoubtedly one of the most impressive testimonies of medieval architecture in the Forggensee area. Located in the heart of the charming town of Füssen, this castle has attracted the eyes of travelers and locals for centuries, towering majestically over the surrounding landscape. Its history dates back to the 12th century, when the bishops of Augsburg decided to build their summer residence here. Over the years, the castle was expanded and improved, eventually becoming one of the most important examples of Gothic defensive architecture in southern Germany.
Today Hohes Schloss impresses not only with its monumental volume, but also with its wealth of architectural and artistic details. The castle's facade is decorated with characteristic illusionist paintings that give the impression of three-dimensional architectural elements. This is a rare example of this type of decoration, which has survived to the present day and constitutes the uniqueness of this building.
When visiting Hohes Schloss, there are several key features worth noting. First of all, the impressive inner courtyard, surrounded by cloisters, which gives an idea of daily castle life in the Middle Ages. Admission to the courtyard is free, allowing anyone to feel the atmosphere of this historic place without having to buy a ticket.
For those who want to delve more deeply into the history of the castle and the region, a museum exhibition is available. For the relatively unaffordable price of 4 euros per adult (as of 2023, children's admission is free), you can view the exhibition, which presents the history of the castle and the surrounding area in a fascinating way. The exhibition, although small, is carefully prepared and allows you to feel the spirit of bygone eras.
Attractions and amenities of Hohes Schloss
One of the most attractive elements of a visit to Hohes Schloss is the opportunity to climb the castle tower. The panorama that stretches from its top is breathtaking. The view includes not only the picturesque town of Füssen, but also the vast expanse of the Bavarian Alps and, of course, Lake Forggensee. It's a great place to take souvenir photos and enjoy the beauty of the area from a completely different perspective.
It is worth noting that the castle is adapted to the needs of modern tourists. There are toilets on the premises, and some rooms are accessible to people with limited mobility. However, due to the historic nature of the building, some areas, including the tower, may be difficult to access for people in wheelchairs or with mobility problems.
Hohes Schloss is not only a monument, but also a living cultural center. The castle hosts temporary art exhibitions, classical music concerts and other cultural events. It's worth checking the current program on the castle's official website before you visit, so you don't miss interesting events.
For families with children, a visit to Hohes Schloss can be a fascinating history lesson. Although, as some visitors note, it lacks special attractions dedicated to the youngest, the castle itself, with its mysterious nooks and crannies, thick walls and observation tower, can spark children's imagination and get them interested in medieval history.
The location of the castle is also worth noting. Hohes Schloss is located in the center of Füssen, which means there are many restaurants, cafes and souvenir stores nearby. So after your visit, you can easily find a place to rest and eat, as well as buy souvenirs of your stay in this charming town.
Planning a visit and practical information
When planning a visit to Hohes Schloss, there are a few practical aspects to consider. The castle is open to the public all year round, but opening hours may vary depending on the season. It is recommended to check the current opening hours on the castle's official website before planning a visit.
Ticket prices are relatively affordable, making Hohes Schloss an attractive option for families and individual tourists. It is worth remembering that the castle courtyard is available free of charge, allowing visitors to experience the atmosphere of the place for the first time without incurring costs.
Getting to Hohes Schloss is hassle-free. Füssen has good train connections to the larger cities of Bavaria, and the castle itself is located in the center of town, a short distance from the train station. For those traveling by car, there are paid parking lots near the castle.
Hohes Schloss, while undoubtedly the main historical attraction in the Forggensee area, is not the only noteworthy site in the region. There are other fascinating sights in close proximity, such as Neuschwanstein Castle and Linderhof, which can be combined into one experience-rich tour.
All in all, Hohes Schloss in Füssen is a place that combines many assets. On the one hand, it is an authentic monument of medieval architecture, and on the other, a modern museum presenting the history of the region. Its picturesque location on Lake Forggensee adds to its charm and means that a visit here can be an unforgettable experience for history buffs as well as those seeking beautiful views and relaxation surrounded by nature.
However, it is worth remembering that opinions about the castle vary. Some visitors believe that the interiors are not as impressive as they might seem from the outside. Others, on the other hand, are delighted with the authenticity and atmosphere of the place. Regardless of individual preferences, Hohes Schloss remains an important landmark on the cultural and historical map of Bavaria, offering a unique look at the medieval architecture and art of the Allgäu region. A visit here is sure to enrich any trip to the scenic Forggensee area.
Similar articles
Ad