ROYALTY FOR A DAY
Interesting Castles to Explore in Europe
By Justin Gibson
The rich! They’ re just like us, but, well, richer. Before they spent all their money on social media platforms, mega-yachts, professional sport teams and private space companies, the upper crust of society built castles. In fact, as recently as 140 years ago, castles were still the ultimate status symbol. There’ s an undeniable air of whimsy at any castle, a magnetic pull of intrigue: What did it really mean to be royalty? To paraphrase the legendary fiction author Ursula K. Le Guin,“ the divine right of kings once seemed inescapable.”
Today, strolling through these relics of prestige, the daydreams and fantasies they evoke seem inescapable. Your kids will no doubt let their imaginations run wild on knights, princesses and dragons. The adults will likely be a bit more grounded: What was it like to hold Royal Court? Can you imagine not having to deal with an HOA? The following four UNESCO-recognized fortresses make for a truly rich and rewarding day trip— and the perfect excuse for the kids to learn some European history!— the next time your family is exploring Europe.
FAMILY VACATIONS MADE EASY · 73