Chateau Chillon
Built on the edge of Lake Geneva, Chillon is a unique and wonderfully preserved 13^th century castle. Steeped in history, the first written reference was made in 1160, although it is known that the rock on which the castle was built had been inhabited since antiquity, most likely as a Roman outpost (Roman artifacts uncovered in 1896). This location was considered a formidable trade route along the once ancient road to Italy between the lake and sheer mountains.

In the 19^th century, Chillon became one of the most famous landmarks in Switzerland. Lord Byron visited the castle's dungeons and wrote the world-renown poem, The Prisoner of Chillon, inspired by the story of Francois de Bonivard's six-year imprisonment in the 16^th century.

Check Chateau Chillon's admission fees and opening hours as they may vary depending on the season. There is convenient car parking available.

Greece

Castle of Rhodes
Rhodes Old Town on the Greek Island of Rhodes has been inhabited for more than 2,400 years with the first city being built in 408 BC. When the Knights of St. John arrived in 1309, they built their citadel over these ancient remains. The Castle of Rhodes borders the bustling Mandráki Harbor where the Colossus of Rhodes (305 BC), one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, is said to have once stood. Today a bronze doe and stag on columns guard the harbor entrance.

The Knights' medieval citadel, dominated by the towers of the Palace of the Grand Masters, forms the center of the Old Town. Moats and two miles of walls surround this medieval castle. Eleven gates give access to the Old Town, which is divided into the Collachium (the Knight's quarters) and the Bourg (houses the rest of the population). As one of the finest walled cities in existence, the Old Town is now a World Heritage Site.

The Palace of the Grand Masters permanently houses the Medieval Rhodes and Ancient Rhodes Exhibitions. Both of these exhibitions can be seen as part of a tour of the Palace of the Grand Masters. The medieval exhibition covers Rhodes from the 4^th century AD to the Turkish conquest of 1522, and the ancient exhibition details 45 years of archaeological investigation on the island with a stunning collection of finds.

The Island of Rhodes is accessible primarily by air from Athens and other international airports or through Rhodes' main port of Mandráki harbor.

Czech Republic

Prague Castle (Hradcany)

Hradcany

This 9^th century castle, in the Czech Republic, is a must see when visiting Eastern Europe. Having escaped the ravages of WWII, get a closer look at one of the most spectacular castle sights in the world. This castle complex has many top sights. Orientate yourself at the Castle Square. Be sure to catch the imposing St. Vitus Roman Catholic Cathedral. Started in 1344 it wasn't completed until 1929. See the seat of the Bohemian princes of the 12^th century with a stop at the Old Royal Palace. Step out onto the balcony for a fine view of Prague. The Basilica of St. George and Convent was the first Bohemian convent dating from the 10^th century. Today the convent houses the Czech Gallery. St. Ludmila was buried in the Basilica which is Prague's best-preserved Romanesque Church. On your way out of the Basilica turn left onto the first street and hang out in the home of Franz Kafka, one of the Czech Republic's most famous writers. This quaint yet touristy area is known as the Golden Lane which originally housed the goldsmiths of the castle. Access more information, including castle directions, admission fees, hours, tours, and reservations online.

Be sure to make room on your busy travel itinerary when visiting Europe to include at least one medieval castle. You will find an appreciation of what life was like during these turbulent yet exciting times. There have been many kings throughout history who lived in great castles supported by fearless knights. Your own Camelot castle can be found on a European journey when you least expect it.

Discover Your Own Castle Accommodation

Use these web sites to help find the castle or chateau accommodation that satisfies the Camelot of your dreams as well as castle tour suggestions.

• European Castle Hotel Directory
  Excellent site offering a comprehensive list of castle hotels throughout Europe indexed by country, including rates, pictures, reservations, and other helpful information.

• Castle Hotels in Germany
  Spending time in Germany? Be sure to stop by this site to find your perfect castle hotel, including rates, pictures, optional German castle tours, and related links.

• Relais & Chateaux
  Provides practical information and is a good source of reference for travelers seeking refuge at an upscale castle or chateau in unique surroundings with plenty of charm.

More Castles:
Castles of France and Portugal

Mad King Ludwig and Ehrenberg

Questions?
If you want more information about this area you can email the author or check out our Europe Insiders page.