Germany: Heidecksburg Castle & Rudolstadt
The small town of Rudolstadt deep in the Thuringian middle of nowhere boasts a massive baroque Heidecksburg Castle. The castle/fortress stands on the high ground above the town and offers panoramic views. Originally built in the 13th century, Heidecksburg Castle underwent significant transformations over the centuries. It was expanded and renovated in the baroque style during the 18th century under the patronage of the Princes of Schwarzburg-Rudolstadt. The castle’s baroque architecture is characterized by grandiose halls, decorations, and frescoes. The castle does have a bit of a worn-out feel and a lot of places are a bit tired and unrestored. The town of Rudolstadt lies beneath the castle and has a picturesque old town with several historical buildings like the Old Town Hall and the Stadtkirche St. Andreas.
