Located in the southwest of Germany on the River Neckar, Heidelberg is best known as the site of the beautiful ruins of the Heidelberg Castle, the baroque style Old Town, which was spared during World War II, and the prestigious Heidelberg University. The castle, however, remains the main draw for the millions of visitors who come each year.
Towering over the city, the castle today lies largely in ruins. Throughout the city, you can see its crumbling walls, windowless facade, and jagged edges silhouetted against the sky. It’s a remarkable sight, and one that’s even more beautiful up close.
Heidelberg Castle
The castle was the seat of the Electors of the Palatinate from the 13th to the 18th century. It was destroyed in the War of Palatinate Succession, but then partially restored until a lightning strike and ensuring fire destroyed it again in 1764. In the 19th century, the painters and poets of the romantic era saw it and spread news of its beauty, and since then it has been one of the most popular tourist attractions in the region.
The castle grounds also include the German apothecary museum and the world’s largest barrel of wine, a whopping wooden monstrosity that can hold 220,000 liters (more than 58,000 gallons) of wine. It’s no wonder that many of Heidelberg’s citizens of the time died of cirrhosis of the liver!
Guided tours are available every hour in German and English for an additional fee. The best deal is a combi ticket, which includes a ride up to the castle on the funicular, access to the castle courtyard, the giant barrel and German apothecary museum for €5. An audio guide or guided tour is an additional €4. Most attractions and the grounds are open from 8am to 5:30pm.
During the Heidelberg Castle Festival in the summer, the courtyard hosts open-air music and theatre performances, and concerts by the Heidelberg Philharmonics. Crowds during the summer can be big; those who come during winter off-season will find the castle even more stunning when dusted with a light layer of snow. No matter when you travel to Heidelberg, a visit to the castle shouldn’t be missed.
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Heidelberg Castle, Site of Germany’s Most Romantic Ruins from Germany Things to Do