German Castles: Fascinating Royal History

The royal history of the south-west of Germany is truly captivating. Prior to the French Revolution, the area that now makes up the federal state of Baden-Württemberg was home to numerous royal duchies and sovereign territories within the Holy Roman Empire. However, after Napoleon’s conquests, only four of these royal states remained, leading to the disappearance of many kingdoms and leaving behind a legacy of stunning castles and palaces.

In Baden-Württemberg, the term “schloss” is used to refer to a castle or palace. This book takes readers on a journey to twenty-five schlosses in the region, sharing intriguing stories about the royal families that were once associated with them. The royal states that were eliminated had rich and captivating histories - from the Palatinate to Hohenlohe to the various territories surrounding Lake Constance. Those that managed to survive experienced territorial expansion and an increase in status – Württemberg transformed into a kingdom while Baden became a grand duchy.

Marriage alliances with France, such as the union with Napoleon’s family, solidified ties with the powerful nation. However, enforced conscription by Napoleon resulted in a heavy toll for the region, with over twenty thousand men from Württemberg and Baden marching to Moscow with Napoleon’s army, but only a fraction returning.

“Schloss in Baden-Württemberg” is the author’s fifth book on the captivating royal history of German castles. It explores various sites, including the summer palace of the Wittelsbach princes of the Rhineland, the lakeside party schloss of a Württemberg king and his English wife, and the ancient mountain castle of the Hohenzollerns. With over 80 illustrations and 20 family trees, this book is sure to appeal to history enthusiasts, travelers, and those interested in personal narratives.

Readers can also explore the author’s other books, “Schloss,” “Schloss II,” “Schloss III,” and “Schloss in Bavaria,” available on Amazon.

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