Schwerin Castleone of the most beautiful buildings in Germany, is picturesquely enthroned on a Island in Lake Schwerin. With its numerous towers, golden domes and ornate architecture, it looks like a fairytale castle and is therefore often referred to as the "Neuschwanstein of the North" called. Today the castle serves as a Seat of the state parliament of Mecklenburg-Vorpommernbut is at the same time a popular Excursion destination and a place full of history and beauty.
The history of the castle
Schwerin Castle can look back on a long and eventful history:
-Origin: Already in the 10th century there was a Slavic castle on the island. Over the centuries, it was repeatedly rebuilt and extended.
-Redesign in the 19th century: Between 1845 and 1857 Grand Duke Friedrich Franz II had the palace built in the style of the Historicism redesign. The architects were inspired by French Renaissance castles such as Chambord.
Architecture - A masterpiece of historicism
Schwerin Castle is an outstanding example of the Historicismwhich artfully combines different stylistic periods.
Highlights of the architecture:
-The towers and domesThe playful roofscape with its numerous towers and golden domes gives the castle its fairytale appearance.
-The facade: The richly decorated façade made of yellow sandstone shows elements of the Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture.
-The castle chapel: A masterpiece of the Neo-Gothicwhich captivates with its filigree decorations and impressive stained glass windows.
The magnificent interiors
A tour of the palace takes visitors through artfully designed rooms that still reflect the splendor of the grand ducal residence.
Special rooms in the castle:
-The throne roomThe impressive hall is the heart of the palace. It fascinates with its opulent decoration, gilded details and mighty Carrara marble columns.
-The ancestral galleryA magnificent gallery in which portraits of the former rulers of Mecklenburg hang.
-The dining roomA sumptuous room with valuable furniture, chandeliers and wall decorations, showing the elegance of the 19th century.
-The castle chapelA place of tranquillity and an architectural gem.
The palace garden - a work of art in garden architecture
The extensive Castle garden was designed in the style of a English landscape garden and perfectly complements the beauty of the castle.
Sights in the castle garden:
-The castle gardenLocated right next to the castle, it offers manicured lawns, ornate flowerbeds and time-honored trees.
-The OrangeryA highlight of the garden, where exotic plants are cultivated.
-The castle garden pavilionAn idyllic place that offers wonderful views of Lake Schwerin and the castle.
-Fountains and statuesNumerous fountains and sculptures round off the harmonious overall picture.
Schwerin Castle as a cultural meeting place
Today, Schwerin Castle is not only a seat of politics, but also a center for Art and culture.
Events and activities:
-Castle MuseumHere visitors can view the magnificent halls and historical collections.
-Concerts and festivalsIn summer, classical concerts and festivals take place in the castle garden.
-Schwerin Castle FestivalA cultural highlight where the castle becomes an impressive backdrop for opera and theater performances.
