Schloss Lichtenstein

Schloss Lichtenstein (Castle Lichtenstein) was a formiddable 19th century fortress and is located in the Schwäbische Alb. The castle is perched atop a craggy peak high above the surrounding villages.

The interior of the castle is not on the grand scale of the Bavarian castle Neuschwanstein, but I rather enjoyed touring this castle more, simply because the rooms were cozy and reflected a “lived in” atmosphere. I could easily visualize Duke Wilhelm of Urach and his family members living in such simple grandeur.

There was a room which served as the gathering place for the Duke's hunting party(s) to gather and tell tales of the hunt. The interior of this room was lined with drinking glasses, steins, and even an "original bier keg"! It was easy to see and "feel" the comfort of this room for such gatherings! The grounds as well, also reflected simplicity and it was easy to imagine the family and/or visitors admiring the flora and fauna. Also located on the premises are two separate structures which serves as apartments for the descendants and are utilized for family gatherings even to this day.

While this is a beautiful site, it should not go unmentioned that there is an "armory" room complete with the weaponry, armor, shields, etc., all indicative of the times and the simple fact that this was also a "fortress". The castle was laid siege to on two separate occasions with evidence of one of the attacks reflected in a mirror located in one of the rooms. The mirror has a "hole" with fragmented "spider-like" veins extending out from the point of impact. It is said that the actual shot entered through one of the castle windows, hit the ceramic heater, and ricocheted to hit the mirror located on the opposite wall. The remaining portion of the mirror and frame are intact.

This is a beautiful castle and historical site and should not be missed should you be fortunate to travel to this area of Baden-Wurtenberg, Germany.