10 Old and Beautiful Castles Around the World

Castles are enchanting not only in their history but also architecture and grand exterior. Some of the oldest castles have been preserved as historical monuments around the world. Here are the 10 old and beautiful castles around the world, all built in various times, all in their own architectural style and with their own incredible stories.

Windsor Castle, Berkshire, England

Windsor Castle that is located in Berkshire, England is one of the official residences The Queen. Built as early as 1070 Windsor is over 13 acres and is one of world’s largest residential castles. The Windsor castle is also open to public on certain days providing tours around the grand royal residence.

Boldt Castle, Alexandria Bay, New York, USA

Boldt Castle is a beautiful century-old castle built by George C. Boldt, Waldorf Astoria Hotel proprietor, as a token of love to his wife Louise. With the sudden death of his wife in 1904 George C. Boldt has stopped the construction being struck with grief. After seven decades of abandonment the castle was acquired by Thousand Islands Bridge Authority in 1977 and has been rehabilitated ever since.

De Haar Castle, Netherlands

De Haar Castle was originally built in 1300′s by Van de Haar family and then destroyed in 15th century. Then the restoration of the castle began in 1892 and later it became the most visited castle of Netherlands.

Chambord Castle, Loire Valley, France

The royal Chateau de Chambord is one the most known castles in France. King François I has built it as his hunting lodge where he has spent only 8 months of his reign. The construction, which began in 1519 has required 1,800 workers to build the beautiful but not defensive structure.

Hunyad Castle, Hunedoara, Romania

Hunyad Castle has once belonged to Hunyadi dynasty has survived fire and neglect but was restored and renovated by modern architects in Gothic style. The castle is believed to be a prison of seven years for Vlad III of the Wallachian empire a.k.a Dracula.

Dunrobin Castle, Scotland

The Dunrobin Castle has existed since 13th century and served as a residence for Earls and Dukes of Sutherland. In 16th century some extensions have been constructed. Some rooms are now open to public including dining, breakfast, music, and drawing rooms as well as the library with over 10,000 books.

Castle of Coca, Spain

Castillo de Coca is located in province of Segovia, Spain. Built in 15th century by Don Alonso de Fonseca the Castle of Coca was planned as a residence but also had impressive defense constructions. It now belongs to the government and attracts tourists because of its historical value.

Cochem Castle, Germany

The Cochem Castle is thought to stand overlooking River Mosel since 11th century. In the period between 1307 and 1354 the castle was extended and fortified. In 1689 however the castle was occupied and destroyed during King Louis XIV invasion of Rhine and the Moselle. The castle has been renovated and rebuilt by German nobility during the 19th century. Now it is a property of the town of Cochem.

Hohen Werfen Castle, Austria

The Hohen Werfen castle is about 900 years old. It stands high about the Salzach valley. The castle is open for visitors and offers a wide range of entertainment.

Malahide Castle, Ireland

Malahide Castle is one of the oldest castles in Ireland. It has served as a residence for Talbot family since 1185 and til 1975. In period of 1649-1660 the castle was run by Miles Corbet after the Cromwellian conquest of Ireland. After Cromwell’s death the castle was returned to Talbot family.