Hohenzollern Castle
Baden-Württemberg
Hohenzollern Castle, perched atop Mount Hohenzollern in Baden-Württemberg, Germany, is the ancestral seat of the imperial House of Hohenzollern. The present castle is the third built on this site, constructed between 1846 and 1867 under King Frederick William IV of Prussia. Designed by architect Friedrich August Stüler, it showcases English Gothic Revival style influenced by the Loire Valley châteaux. The castle houses significant Prussian historical artifacts, including the Crown of Wilhelm II and personal effects of King Frederick the Great. Although none of the German Emperors permanently resided here, the castle briefly sheltered Crown Prince Wilhelm after World War II. It is renowned for its striking hilltop location on an 855-meter mountain, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the legacy of one of Germany's most prominent noble families. Today, it remains privately owned by the Hohenzollern family and attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors annually, who come to explore its grand halls, chapel, and museum collections.
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Tip: Visit during spring or early summer to enjoy the castle's floral displays and pleasant weather. It is advisable to purchase tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons and special events. The castle offers shuttle services from parking areas for easier access. Check the official website for current opening hours and any temporary closures of museum rooms or facilities. Visitors can benefit from guided tours to fully appreciate the historical significance and architectural details. Discounts may be available for groups, seniors, or students.
Interesting facts
- •The castle is the ancestral seat of the imperial House of Hohenzollern, which provided kings of Prussia and German emperors.
- •It is the third castle built on Mount Hohenzollern; the first was destroyed in 1423 after a year-long siege.
- •The current castle was designed by Friedrich August Stüler, inspired by English Gothic Revival and Loire Valley châteaux.
- •The castle contains the Crown of Wilhelm II and personal items of King Frederick the Great.
- •The castle sits 855 meters above sea level, offering panoramic views over the Swabian Jura region.
- •It attracts around 350,000 visitors annually, making it one of Germany's most popular castles.
History
The original Hohenzollern Castle was built in the early 11th century and first documented in 1267.
It was destroyed in 1423 after a prolonged siege by the Swabian League of Cities.
A second, stronger castle was constructed between 1454 and 1461, serving as a refuge during conflicts like the Thirty Years' War but gradually fell into disrepair by the late 18th century.
The current third castle was commissioned by King Frederick William IV of Prussia and built from 1846 to 1867, inspired by Gothic Revival architecture.
While it was never a permanent royal residence, it houses important artifacts and briefly served as a home for Crown Prince Wilhelm after World War II.
Place Guide
The Chapel of St. Michael15th century
The only remaining usable part of the second castle before the current structure was built, the chapel is a significant historical and architectural feature dedicated to St. Michael.
The Crown Hall (Grafensaal)1846-1867
A grand hall used for ceremonies and gatherings, decorated with heraldic symbols of the Hohenzollern family and showcasing Gothic Revival design elements.
The Castle Treasury19th century
Houses a collection of valuable artifacts related to the Hohenzollern dynasty, including the Crown of Wilhelm II and personal effects of King Frederick the Great.
The Castle Bastions and Walls19th century reconstruction
Fortified defensive structures providing panoramic views of the surrounding Swabian Jura and the town of Hechingen below, illustrating the castle's strategic importance.
Contact
Phone: 07471 2428
