Hohenzollern Castle

Hohenzollern Castle is a truly impressive 19th century castle and popular tourist destination located 40 miles south of Stuttgart.

Hohenzollern Castle history

There were in fact three castles built on the Hohenzollern site. The first was built in the early 11th century but this castle was completely destroyed in 1423 after a ten-month siege.

A larger fortress was constructed in the mid-fifteenth century, which served as an important military centre for the region at the time – changing hands repeatedly during the 30 Years War. As with many European fortresses, by the end of the 18th century Hohenzollern Castle had largely lost its strategic importance and gradually fell into disrepair, and today only the medieval chapel remains from this second incarnation.

The final castle was built between 1850 and 1867 by King Frederick William IV of Prussia. The castle was modelled on similar constructions in England and France built in the Gothic Revival style. In 1945 Hohenzollern Castle briefly became the home of the former Crown Prince Wilhelm of Germany, son of the last German monarch, Kaiser Wilhelm II.

Hohenzollern Castle today

Today visitors to Hohenzollern Castle can not only enjoy the impressive fortress itself but also the museum, which contains a fascinating collection of artefacts linked to the history of Prussia and its royal family including the royal crown worn and a uniform worn by Frederick the Great.

The castle hosts events throughout the year such as concerts, open-air cinema, exhibitions and one of Germany’s most beautiful Christmas markets

Getting to Hohenzollern Castle

The castle is easily accessible by public transport. The nearest station is Hechingen station and from here buses run to the castle. There is also parking available for those who choose to drive.