Most Beautiful Castles in Europe & The History Behind Them

Castles are super dreamy, right? The magnificent structures spreading over large areas of land are a pleasant treat for the eyes to see. Europe is a hub of some of the best castles in the world. Unfortunately, many of these wonders are uncelebrated even though they deserve praise. Let us look at 10 such castles and their history, so you can travel to see them next. 

Trakai – Lithuania Grand Duke Kęstutis of Lithuania started the construction of this castle, and his son Vytautas finished it.

It was built in the 14th and 15th centuries on one of the many islands of Lake Galvė. The location is strategically unique as Trakai Island Castle is surrounded by water on all sides. Though, when the castle was built, the water levels around it were 2 meters higher than current levels. Global warming, huh?

Hluboká nad Vltavou - Czech Republic Do you know how this castle can be described in a few words? “A piece of Windsor England in the middle of South Bohemia”.

It was built in the middle of the 13th century. However, it became the Schwarzenberg family’s property in the 16th century. They formed a beautifully landscaped park with the castle.

Moritzburg Castle This astonishing castle was built in the mid-16th century by Duke Maurice of Saxony.

It lies in the middle of a vast lake. It was also the favorite hunting area of kings and electors of Saxony. Frederick Augustus III of Saxony ordered the modeling and construction of the castle's surroundings in the 18th century.

Now, Moritzburg is a famous meeting place for lovers of Meissen porcelain and Saxon Baroque.

Corvin Castle Surrounded by steel mills, Corvin Castle is still a fascinating fortress of Transylvania.

It was built in the mid-15th century by the Hungarian military leader John Hunyadi. The architecture of this castle displays the rich gothic style. Unfortunately, the castle’s condition deteriorated after Hunyadi’s death. Later in the 17th century, this masterpiece was restored.

Castillo de Colomares – Spain This is one of the most attractive tourist attractions in Benalmadena. Castillo de Colomores was built in the 20th century by Dr. Esteban Martín Martín.

This was founded as a monument and is dedicated to the adventurous life of Christopher Columbus. This visionary castle combines various wonderful designs that make it unique. Swallow's Nest Castles are usually associated with symbols of war, but this one represents love! This was initially a small house built in the 19th century.

However, after the ownership was passed twice, Baron von Stiengel got this castle built as the “Fortress of love". It is at the edge of the cliff with the Black Sea around it. It is structurally strong and even survived a massive earthquake in 1927. Gwrych Castle This is a 200-year-old castle that has, unfortunately, been abandoned for decades. Normans in the 12th century built the first Gwrych Castle.

After being destroyed by Cromwell's army in the 17th century, it was built again in the 18th century. The castle is known to be haunted, and rumor says it is haunted by its former owner, Counter Winifred. Miramare Castle You can also call this, “The hidden gem of the Mediterranean.” Surrounded by more than 50 acres of lush green gardens on one side and crystal blue water on the other, Miramare castle was built in the 19th century.

Austrian Archduke Ferdinand Maximilian ordered the construction of this castle after falling in love with this entire piece of land and the spectacular views around it. Bojnice Castle This work of art is not only famous in Slovakia but the entire of Central Europe. Located on the Travertine hill over the town, this castle is said to be built in the 12th century. The Poznan family founded it.

However, not much remained of this castle except for foundations. The Pálffy family reconstructed it in the 20th century into a romantic castle. Moszna Castle This is a massive structure built in the 19th century over 8,400 square yards (about twice the area of a large mansion). Moszna Castle is straight out of a fairytale. It was the residence of the German Tiele-Winckler family.

However, later it was home to different families at different times. This castle was also featured as the most beautiful castle in the world.

Wrapping up:
That is about it for the top 10 not-so-famous castles of Europe. Some of the above castles still stand in their original condition, while some were rebuilt or remodeled. I am positive that when you see these, you will realize how underrated they are.