Medieval castles across Europe showcase architecture from past centuries. The complexes present towers, fortification walls and underground passages. From mountain peaks to islands, these structures provide insights into historical defense systems and princely residences.
Ariège, France
This medieval fortress built on a 1207-meter limestone rock served as a refuge for Cathars in the 13th century.
Granada, Spain
This 13th-century Arabic palace combines residential buildings, military structures and gardens on a hill above Granada. The red walls enclose decorated halls and courtyards with water features.
Darmstadt, Germany
The 13th century castle stands on a 370-meter hill in the Odenwald forest. It features two towers and a castle chapel.
San Marino
This medieval fortress from the 11th century stands on Mount Titano and served as watchtower and prison for San Marino.
Postojna, Slovenia
This Renaissance castle from the 16th century was constructed inside a 123 meter high cliff and connects to a cave system.
Helsingør, Denmark
This Renaissance fortress was built in the 16th century. The location served as inspiration for Shakespeare's Hamlet. The structure controlled the Øresund strait.
Blatce, Czech Republic
This 13th century castle stands on a sandstone rock. According to local legends, it was built over a deep hole.
Fumel, France
This medieval fortress from the 13th century stands on a limestone rock. The defensive complex contains seven towers and three barbicans.
Sinaia, Romania
Built in the 19th century, the castle contains 160 rooms with German architecture. The halls display a large collection of European art and historical furniture.
Dornie, Scotland
Medieval fortress on an island between three sea lochs: Loch Duich, Loch Long and Loch Alsh. Stone bridge connects the castle to mainland.
Spišské Podhradie, Slovakia
The 12th century castle complex covers 41,000 square meters on a limestone rock. The fortress includes several defensive towers.
Hohenschwangau, Germany
Royal residence from the 19th century on a mountain peak. The limestone facade and Romanesque towers rise above the Alpine valley of Hohenschwangau.
Loir-et-Cher, France
Renaissance castle featuring 440 rooms, 365 fireplaces and a double spiral staircase in the main tower. Originally built as a hunting lodge for King Francis I.
Trakai, Lithuania
The red brick castle from the 14th century stands on an island in Lake Galvė. It served as residence for Lithuanian Grand Dukes.
Braşov, Romania
The fortress from the 14th century stands on a 60-meter limestone rock. The building contains 57 rooms connected by spiral staircases.
Falaise, France
This medieval castle from the 12th century was the birthplace of William the Conqueror. The fortress stands on a high rock in Normandy.
Bojnice, Slovakia
This medieval castle was built in the 12th century and features a mix of Romanesque and Gothic architecture with large round towers and pointed arches.
Abergele, Wales
This 19th century historical fortress features 250 meters of exterior walls, multiple towers and a large garden facing the coastline.
Werfen, Austria
A medieval fortress built on a 623-meter rock formation above the Salzach Valley. The fortification served as a military outpost of Salzburg.
Sintra, Portugal
The estate was built between 1904 and 1910. The architecture incorporates Roman, Gothic and Renaissance elements with references to alchemy and Masonry.
Honau, Germany
Gothic Revival castle from the 19th century built on a limestone rock in the Swabian Alps. The castle was constructed in 1842.
Wierschem, Germany
The hilltop fortress from the 12th century stands on a rock spur 70 meters above the Moselle valley. It features eight towers and three separate residential houses.
Samobor, Croatia
Built in the 13th century on Tepec hill, the castle features partially preserved stone walls and towers. The location provides a view over the town.
Sintra, Portugal
Built in 1854, this palace combines Neo-Gothic, Manueline and Moorish architectural elements. The colored facades are decorated with azulejos and surrounded by gardens.
Tongwynlais, Wales
The castle was built in the 19th century following medieval designs. The red towers rise above the Taff River valley.
Vyborg, Russia
This 13th-century fortress stands on an island. The castle was built by the Swedes and served as a border stronghold against Novgorod.
Figueres, Spain
This 18th century fortress spans 32 hectares with five main bastions and extensive underground military facilities.
Orlik nad Vltavou, Czech Republic
This medieval fortress stands on a rocky promontory above the confluence of Vltava and Otava rivers, with defensive towers from the 13th century.
Rakvere, Estonia
The fortress dates from the 13th century. Visitors can participate in demonstrations of medieval life and examine historical weapons.
Robertsbridge, England
This medieval fortress was built in 1385. The rectangular structure features four round towers, a drawbridge and a wide moat.