Hohenzollern Castle

Hohenzollern Castle is a museum and monument on the mountain of the same name near Bisingen in Germany. The compound includes residential wings, chapels, courtyards, and defensive towers that spread across several levels and are connected by staircases and passages.

King Frederick William IV of Prussia commissioned the current structure between 1846 and 1867 after the second fortress on this site had fallen into ruin during the 18th century. The family used the building as a memorial to their origins and as a symbol of their power during the rise of the German nation state.

The name comes from the Swabian noble family that held their ancestral seat here before becoming one of Europe's most powerful dynasties. Visitors walk through rooms filled with tapestries, carved wooden ceilings, and furniture from the era of Prussian kings, which still convey the spirit of the 19th century.

You reach the entrance via a paved path with several slopes that takes about 20 minutes on foot from the parking area. Those who have difficulty walking can use a shuttle bus that runs the route regularly.

The treasury holds a tobacco box that Frederick the Great was carrying when an enemy bullet struck the metal during the Battle of Kunersdorf in 1759, likely saving his life. The dent remains clearly visible today and ranks among the most personal mementos in the collection.

Location: Bisingen

Architects: Friedrich August Stüler

Architectural style: Gothic Revival

Elevation above the sea: 843 m

Accessibility: Wheelchair limited access

Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday 10:00-17:30

Website: https://burg-hohenzollern.com

GPS coordinates: 48.32356,8.96740

Latest update: December 4, 2025 14:20