Harburg Castle
Harburg Castle is one of the oldest and most powerful in the past fortified strongholds in southern Germany. What distinguishes Harburg among other castles is that to this day it has retained its original form and is not influenced by architectural trends from over the years. Another hallmark of the castle Harburg is that it is the largest fortress that has managed to been preserved in such good condition in this part of Germany.
The actual town of Harburg, which has a population of no more than 6000 people, is located in the western part of the German province of Bavaria. Castle Harburg with its massive retaining walls stands in a picturesque park at the end of the town. Furthermore the medieval castle town has many interesting attractions, including a remarkable historic bridge.
Castle Harburg is amazingly large as the palace was built to serve as a fortress guarding the strategic road and was practically impregnable. It remains so for centuries and has never fallen into the wrong hands. As an important military fort, Harburg was especially known in that time for its kings which ruled between 1070 and 1272.
For the first time, historical texts mention the castle Harburg in 1150 when the fortress was never seriously affected in the war. Unlike other medieval castles which were built shortly before Harburg and which have been refurbished since World War II, Harburg castle fully preserves the spirit of the Middle Ages.
Today the castle and its surroundings are a real treasure of monuments. Many museums allow visitors to immerse themselves in the spirit of the early history of Celtic, Roman and Germanic historical periods, medieval and early modern era. Also, along the palace has an interesting historical cemetery.
Michael Jackson is one of the people who have recognized the grandeur of the castle Harburg. The lifetime King of Pop, called the fortress, the castle of my dreams and tried several times to buy it but unfortunately was unsuccessful. Today in Harburg, a number of festivals, celebrations, wedding ceremonies and private receptions take place there.
From the 16th March until late October there are free tours around the palace. From November to January it is only by prior to reservation. Every two years beyond the walls of Harburg the castle becomes the host of the interesting historical festival that recreates the spirit of the Middle Ages.
