View from the Castle Wall, Heidelberg, 8/02/2012

Chateau Haut-Koenigsbourg, 4/02/2012:

After exploring Sélestat, we got back on the bus and headed up the mountain to visit a “fake” medieval castle. Chateau Haut-Koenigsbourg was originally built in the 12th century but was burned to the ground during the 30 Years War in 1633. The castle was restored in 1900 to its previous glory to showcase German power in Alsace.

Now, it feels very much like an amusement park ride. The castle was reconstructed as an image of German strength; it was never intended to be a residence. The castle has a clear walking route for tourists to see all of the sites, both old and new. 

Chandelier and Ceiling, Rastatt Castle, 2/02/2012
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Chandelier and Ceiling, Rastatt Castle, 2/02/2012

Rastatt Castle, 2/02/2012:

On Thursday morning, we visited a baroque castle built between 1700 and 1707. During this time, having great wealth implied also having a strong army, so the Margrave Louis William of Baden-Baden had a large, ornate castle built to show off his wealth and strength.

Our entire tour focused on the importance of social class and social customs during this period of history. We learned (with much giggling) how to properly bow/curtsey to the Margrave. 

Other interesting facts: during this time period, Europe started to receive greater quantities of coffee and tea. This allowed people to drink nonalcoholic beverages instead of just beer. The result of this: construction workers were able to continue working in the evenings. Previously they had been too drunk to work a whole day.

Image descriptions:

  1. The front of the Rastatt Castle, painted pink to match sandstone.
  2. A view of the painted ceiling from the stairs at the entrance.
  3. A carved scholar perched near the ceiling in the ballroom. Not pictured: Carved Turkish prisoners holding up the wall. Context: Margrave Louis William was also known was Türkenlouis (Turk Louis) because he conquered/held back the Turks.