Travelers visit Germany for a wide range of different things. Be it that Berlin’s artistic districtsOr the elegant wineries of the Moselle Valley or the raucous debauchery of Bavarian Oktoberfest, Germany has plenty to offer just about every type of traveler. The one thing that is on almost every traveler’s list is Must-see fairytale castles in Germany. This is a house The enchanting cliff castle that inspired the Disney movie “Sleeping Beauty”in addition to the wonders of Hohenzollern stories.
One magnificent German castle that doesn’t always get the appreciation it deserves is Schwerin Castle, the ancestral home of the Dukes of Mecklenburg. Perched on an island in the middle of Schwerin, surrounded by a sparkling lake, this stunning castle is considered one of the most important works of Romantic history in Europe, and the equivalent of such wonders as Chambord Castle on the Loire River in France.
Schwerin Castle is located in the heart of the city of Schwerin, the capital of the state of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern in northern Germany. It is about 68 miles from Hamburg, and 130 miles from Berlin. The nearest major international airport is Hamburg Airport, just over an hour and a half away by car. Lübeck Airport is even closer and can be reached in just under an hour, but serves a limited range of destinations.
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“Neuchwanstein of the North.”
Schwerin Castle and the lake in front of it – Diego Grande/Getty Images
There has been a fortification on the site of Schwerin Castle since the 10th century, but the modern incarnation was rebuilt in 1845 by order of Grand Duke Friedrich Franz II to create a more consistent and harmonious architectural feel. With six wings, 11 floors, and more than 630 rooms, it is a monumental edifice, an extraordinary display of power and splendor, and an original work of art. The views from outside this UNESCO World Heritage Site are stunning, with its massive size offset by the delicate and ornate towers and towers. The island’s ambience completes the picture, as the mirror-like lagoon makes it appear as if it’s floating in the air.
Inside, the palace is equally impressive. Part museum, part stately home, Schwerin Castle houses a stunning collection of artwork, including some exceptional examples of 19th-century German painting and sculpture, as well as silverware, some fine ducal and ceremonial arms, and an impressive collection of fine Meissen porcelain. The historic furniture is beautiful, the church’s stained glass is exquisite, and the carefully curated interior is sumptuous, drawing visitors into the charm and grandeur of 19th-century Germany.
The extensive grounds surrounding the castle are also worth exploring. Designed to match the French Baroque style, the gardens of Schwerin are incredibly beautiful. Hugging the castle itself, Hotel Burggaten features a delightful orangery overlooking the lake, complete with a restaurant and café. Across a narrow bridge, the Schlossgarten is crisscrossed by a number of peaceful canals, filled with colorful flower displays, statues and even a grotto.
The heart of the German Lake District
Narrow pedestrian alley leading to Schwerin Cathedral in the background – Maren Winter/Shutterstock
Schwerin itself is a treat, and there is plenty to do as well as a trip to the castle. Surrounded by seven lakes, it is the gateway to the Mecklenburg Lake District, a massive network of lakes and canals known as the “Land of a Thousand Lakes.” Unlike many other German cities, Schwerin did not suffer many air raids during World War II, meaning that its historic architecture remains largely intact.
Exploring the winding cobblestone streets and narrow alleys of the Old Town is one of the best things to do in Schwerin. You’ll find beautiful half-timbered houses, beautiful churches, and a variety of historic cafes and restaurants. The Old Town Market and the 14th-century Town Hall are located in the heart of the city and are a great place to start.
Another major attraction in Schwerin is the majestic cathedral. An excellent example of northern German Gothic architecture, it was built in the 12th century and features a bronze baptismal font from 1325, a triumphal cross from 1420, and a stunning Ladgast organ. The church tower was added later, and was constructed in the late 19th century, and at 384 feet is the tallest church tower in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. Visitors can climb to the top and enjoy fantastic views across the lakes to Schwerin Castle itself.
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