Schloss Heidelberg (Heidelberg Castle), Heidelberg (must see)

Heidelberg Castle rises above the Old Town on the forested slope of King’s Seat hill, its romantic red-sandstone ruins creating one of Germany’s best-known views. First mentioned in 1225, it developed between the 13th and 17th centuries from a heavily fortified Gothic stronghold into the principal residence of the Wittelsbach counts palatine and, later, the electors of the Palatinate. During the 16th and early 17th centuries, the complex was remodelled into one of Germany’s finest Renaissance residences.

The castle suffered during the Thirty Years’ War and was devastated by French forces in 1689 and 1693. A lightning strike caused another destructive fire in 1764, after which the residence was abandoned. During the 19th century, artists and travellers celebrated the ruins as a symbol of Romanticism, helping to ensure their preservation.

Much of the castle’s appeal lies in its architectural variety. The oldest surviving sections date from the 15th century, while the inner courtyard is lined with more elaborate Renaissance buildings. The richly sculpted Frederick Wing anchors the northern side of the courtyard and displays statues of generations of Palatine rulers, while the Otto Henry Wing dominates the eastern side. In contrast, the comparatively plain English Wing, with its regular square windows, was commissioned by Elector Frederick V for his young Scottish bride, Elizabeth Stuart. Because the inner courtyard was already fully developed, this wing had to be constructed entirely outside it, along the northern defensive ramparts.

Next, inside the Barrel Building, visitors can see the two-storey Great Cask. Made from roughly 130 oak trees, it could hold about 220,000 litres, or 58,500 gallons, of wine collected as taxes from Palatinate growers. To reach the building, approach the façade of the Frederick Wing and turn left towards the connecting passageway.

The Otto Henry Wing contains another highlight. The German Pharmacy Museum presents six reconstructed apothecaries, along with historic books, instruments, medicine bottles, and laboratory equipment.

Summer events traditionally include castle illuminations and fireworks commemorating the fires of 1689, 1693, and 1764, as well as theatrical performances during the Heidelberg Castle Festival.