Cities & Culture
Museum of the Bavarian Kings Hohenschwangau
The Museum of the Bavarian Kings in Hohenschwangau in southern Bavaria traces the history of the Wittelsbach dynasty from its very beginnings through to the present day in the setting of a former grand hotel.
The museum is set in an idyllic spot in the shadows of the mighty Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau Castles by the banks of Lake Alpsee. Surrounded by a stunning natural landscape with a magnificent view of the castles, visitors are provided with an insight into the history of the Wittelsbach dynasty from its very beginnings to the present day. The museum features state-of-the-art technology, interactive exhibits and displays that fill the exhibition rooms and bring history to life.
The exhibition centres around the figures responsible for building Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau Castles, King Ludwig II and his father King Maximilian II. As one of the oldest dynasties, the Wittelsbachs are considered to be one of the major noble families in European history. They helped shape the politics of Europe and were instrumental in the development of the Holy Roman Empire of the German Nation in their role as secular rulers and church dignitaries. Whilst father and son had their passion for the beautiful landscape surrounding Hohenschwangau in common, they didn't quite see eye to eye when it came to their beliefs on the rights and responsibilities of a monarch. Opening times: Summer: Every day 9 am–5 pm (last admission: 4:30 pm)