A beautiful view of the Hohenzollern Castle under the cloudy sky in Germany (wirestock (123RF))
Editor’s Note: This article was written by a member of the local military community, not an employee of Stars and Stripes. Neither the organization nor the content is being represented by Stars and Stripes or the Department of Defense.
Hohenzollern Castle is one of the most impressive castles in Germany, majestically perched atop an 855-meter-high mountain peak in the Swabian Alb. With its picturesque silhouette, imposing fortress walls, and historic interiors, the castle attracts thousands of visitors each year. As the ancestral seat of the Prussian royal family and the House of Hohenzollern, it offers a fascinating blend of history, architecture, and breathtaking nature.
The origins of Hohenzollern Castle date back to the 11th century. Over the centuries, the fortress was repeatedly destroyed and rebuilt. The current neo-Gothic structure was constructed in the 19th century under King Frederick William IV of Prussia. Today, the castle serves as a museum and houses valuable exhibits, including the Prussian royal crown and personal belongings of Frederick the Great.
Road sign in front of hill upon which Burg Hohenzollern sits on top of (MMag. Alexander G Grill)
A castle tour takes visitors through lavishly decorated rooms, historic halls, and impressive art collections. Key highlights include:
The Treasury: Showcasing valuable artworks and historical relics
The Castle Chapel: A masterpiece of architecture featuring intricate stained-glass windows.
The Courtyard: Offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape
The Fortress Walls: Providing a unique panoramic view of the Swabian Alb
In addition to classic guided tours, specially-themed experiences offer deeper insights into courtly life. Interactive tours are also available for children, making history engaging and fun.
The area surrounding the castle invites visitors to enjoy various outdoor activities. Hikers and nature enthusiasts can explore the many trails of the Swabian Alb, including the Zollernburg Panorama Trail, which offers spectacular viewpoints. A particularly stunning hike leads to Zeller Horn, one of the best spots to admire the castle from afar.
Other attractions in the region include:
Hechingen-Stein Open-Air Museum: A reconstructed Roman villa providing fascinating insights into Roman life in Germania.
Tübingen: A charming university town with a historic old town and scenic Neckar riverfront, perfect for a day trip. Learn more about visiting Tübingen here.
Burg Hohenzollern on a sunny day framed by the shadow of tree leaves (MMag. Alexander G Grill)
Opening Hours: The castle is open year-round, with hours varying by season. It is advisable to check the official website for up-to-date information.
Admission Fees:
Adults: €22
Reduced: €12 (children, students, seniors)
Family Ticket: €50
Getting There: Hohenzollern Castle is located near Hechingen and is easily accessible by car and public transportation. Shuttle buses run from Hechingen to the castle. Parking facilities are available nearby.
Address: Hohenzollern Castle 72379 Burg Hohenzollern www.burg-hohenzollern.com
A visit to Hohenzollern Castle is an unforgettable experience for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and families alike. The combination of majestic architecture, rich history, and spectacular scenery makes this castle one of Germany’s most beautiful travel destinations.
