Top 20 Most Unique Castles

This fairytale-like castle in Bavaria, Germany was built in the 19th century by King Ludwig II of Bavaria. The castle's unique architecture is inspired by medieval Romanesque and Gothic styles, featuring a distinctive turrets and towers. Completed in 1886, Neuschwanstein is one of the most visited castles in Europe, attracting over 1 million visitors annually. It is said that the castle's design was influenced by Richard Wagner's operas, with King Ludwig II reportedly being inspired by his music and artwork.

This imposing medieval castle in Poland was founded in the 13th century by the Teutonic Knights. The castle features an impressive complex of brick buildings, including a stunning cathedral and a beautiful park. Completed in 1404, Malbork is considered one of the largest brick castles in Europe, spanning over 35 acres. According to historical records, the castle was constructed using over 1 million bricks.

Located in central France, Chambord Castle was built between 1519 and 1547 by King Francis I. The castle's unique architecture is characterized by its distinctive Renaissance-style design, featuring a prominent mask-like facade and stunning gardens. Completed after the king's death, Chambord takes up over 25,000 square meters of land, making it one of the largest castles in France.

Situated on a mountain top in Germany, Hohenzollern Castle was built in the 12th century by the Hohenzollern family. The castle features an impressive medieval structure, with towers and battlements characteristic of the period. Completed in the 19th century, the castle's design is attributed to William Henry, Count of Hohenzollern-Sigmaringen. According to historical records, Hohenzollern Castle has been owned by various European royal families over the centuries.

This picturesque Scottish island castle dates back to the 13th century, with its unique design influenced by Romanesque and Gothic styles. Completed in the 15th century, Eilean Donan Castle features a stunning medieval structure situated on a small island in Loch Duich. The castle's strategic location made it an important stronghold during World War II, as evidenced by several German prisoners of war camps.

Located in Denmark, Elsinore Castle was built in the 16th century by King Christian IV. The castle features a stunning Renaissance-style design, with its distinctive red-brick facade and beautiful gardens. Completed in 1571, Elsinore is one of the oldest and most famous castles in Scandinavia, housing several museums and exhibitions showcasing Danish history.

This medieval fortress in southern France was built in the 12th century by Count Raymond VI. The castle's unique design features a distinctive limestone structure, with seven concentric walls stretching over 50 feet tall. Completed in 1210, Carcassonne has been nominated as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1997.

This historic Scottish fortress sits atop a dormant volcano and dates back to the 12th century, with multiple phases of construction and expansion. The castle features an impressive array of monuments, including the famous One O'Clock Gun and the Scottish National War Memorial. Completed in 1810, Edinburgh Castle attracts millions of visitors annually.

Located in Ireland, Kilkenny Castle was built in the 12th century by William Marshal, Earl of Pembroke. The castle features an impressive medieval structure, with its distinctive keep and curtain walls showcasing its defensive capabilities. Completed in the 19th century, the castle's design incorporated elements from various architectural styles.

As one of Queen Elizabeth II's official residences, Windsor Castle is steeped in history dating back to the 12th century. The castle features an impressive range of architecture, including the famous Round Tower and St. George's Chapel. Completed in 1382, Windsor has been a favorite royal residence for over eight centuries.

This stunning Czech fortress sits atop a hill overlooking the Vltava River and dates back to the 9th century. The castle features an impressive complex of buildings, including the iconic St. Vitus Cathedral and the Old Royal Palace. Completed in the 14th century, Prague Castle is considered one of the largest castles in Europe.

Located on a rocky outcrop in Finland, Hrimaa Castle was built in the 19th century by Baron Gustaf von Schimmern. The castle's unique design features a distinctive Gothic-inspired architecture and an impressive art collection. Completed in 1888, Hrimaa is one of the most remote castles in Europe.

Situated in southern Italy, this medieval fortress was built in the 13th century by Emperor Frederick II. The castle's unique design features a distinctive hexagonal shape and an impressive array of defensive systems. Completed in 1240, Castel del Monte is considered one of the most well-preserved castles in Europe.

Located in Belgium, Bruges Castle dates back to the 12th century and was originally built as a fortress. The castle features an impressive medieval structure, with its distinctive keep and curtain walls showcasing its defensive capabilities. Completed in the 13th century, Bruges Castle has been beautifully restored and now serves as a museum.

Located off the coast of France, this island abbey was built in the 10th century by Duke Richard I. The castle's unique design features an impressive array of Romanesque architecture, including the stunning Benedictine church. Completed in 1318, Mont Saint-Michel is considered one of the most iconic landmarks in Europe.

Situated in England, this medieval fortress was built in the 12th century by Robert de Clinton, Earl of Huntingdon. The castle features an impressive array of architectural styles, including Gothic and Renaissance elements. Completed in 1330, Kenilworth is one of the best-preserved castles in the English Midlands.

This stunning Czech fortress was built in the 14th century by King Charles IV. The castle features an impressive complex of buildings, including the famous St. Thomas Church and the Old Royal Palace. Completed in 1450, Prague's Strahov is one of the most beautiful castles in Europe.

Located in northern France, this medieval fortress was built in the 13th century by Pierre de Rambures. The castle features an impressive array of architectural styles, including Gothic and Renaissance elements. Completed in 1250, Château de Coucy is considered one of the most beautiful castles in France.

Situated on a hilltop in Austria, this medieval fortress was built in the 13th century by the Counts of Lahrngut. The castle features an impressive array of architectural styles, including Romanesque and Gothic elements. Completed in 1290, Batschumer is one of the most remote castles in Europe.

Located in the Netherlands, this medieval fortress was built in the 13th century by Queen Matilda. The castle features an impressive array of architectural styles, including Romanesque and Gothic elements. Completed in 1227, Muiden is one of the best-preserved castles in Europe.