Heidelberg Castle (Schloss Heidelberg) is imperious, mystical and romantic all at the same time. It stands over Heidelberg’s Old Town and the Neckar Valley on the lower slopes of Königstuhl hill. Enjoy views of the city and valley from the pristine garden, peruse a sculpture collection, see an enormous wine barrel and watch a spectacular light show. Heidelberg Castle dates back to the 1300s. Its many buildings showcase the evolution of German architecture.
Enter via the Schlosshof courtyard and come face-to-face with the richly decorated Friedrich Building. Gaze at the sculptures of the former German kings and emperors of the Holy Roman Empire that adorn the façade. More sculptures festoon the Ottheinrich Building, one of the earliest examples of German Renaissance architecture. In the basement is the German Pharmacy Museum, where curious exhibits chart the history of pharmacy.
Go to the Large Alton balcony and look down on the Barrel Building, notable for its Gothic-style windows. Contemplate the enormity of the 34,000-gallon (130,000-liter) wine barrel stored in the building’s cellar. Wine was often pumped directly from the barrel to the adjacent Ladies’ Room Building and King’s Hall ballroom during royal events.
Stroll around the Hortus Palatinus, the glorious castle garden commissioned in the 1600s by Prince Elector Friedrich V. It features multilevel terraces surrounded by balustrades, tree-lined lawns, ornamental fountains and ruined columns. Pause to admire the views across Heidelberg’s rooftops and the verdant Neckar Valley.
Time your visit to coincide with the Schlossbeleuchtung light and fireworks show. It takes place on three days in June, July and September and commemorates the three fires that damaged the castle.
Reach the castle by walking along Burgwerg, a path that leads uphill from Kornmarkt Square. Alternatively ride the Bergbahn funicular train.
Heidelberg Castle is open daily, except for select public holidays. The site has an admission fee. Guided tours and audio guides in English are available for a fee. Access the castle’s interior by guided tour only.
