As one can imagine, castles show off incredible interior design. The opulence and grandeur are ever-present. If you happen to be near one of these architectural feats, be sure to drop in and view their incredible interiors too. They are jaw-dropping…
Schloss Benrath – Düsseldorf, Germany
Found just south of Düsseldorf, this castle was home to Elector Palatine Charles Theodore, who ruled over Bavaria during the 18th century. French architect Nicolas de Pigage spent almost 20 years perfecting the three-winged manor and its bountiful flowerbeds, soaring trees, and extravagant canal across the property’s 148 acres.
Inside, the Baroque-style rooms are dripping in grandeur with sparkling chandeliers, one-of-a-kind frescoes, and gilded furnishings. A number of the original furnishings—such as carved console tables and delicate writing desks—remain within the central halls.
Agra Fort – Agra, India
Celebrated as one of the finest fortresses in all of India, the red-sandstone and marble marvel served as the main residence of the Mughal Dynasty emperors. Emperor Akbar commissioned the construction of the imposing military structure nestled on the bank of the Yamuna River in 1565. Shah Jahan, Akbar’s grandson, later transformed the fort into a lavish palace that would ultimately become his upscale prison after Aurangzeb overthrew the ruler in 1658.
The ear-shaped complex includes a labyrinth of marble buildings, lush courtyards, and a network of underground rooms. The Musamman Burj, an octagonal tower made of marble lattices, was built for Shan Jahan’s wife Mumtaz, offering the maiden views of the nearby Taj Mahal and river.
Houghton Hall – Norfolk, England
Houghton Hall was built for Sir Robert Walpole between 1722 and 1735. Walpole was Britain’s first Prime Minister, and this palatial house was intended to celebrate his rising political fortunes. The staterooms have always been a showpiece. They still retain their original decoration, designed by the architect William Kent, and their original furnishings. Walpole employed the architects James Gibbs and Colen Campbell to draw up plans for the house.
Frederiksborg – Copenhagen, Denmark
North of Copenhagen lies a masterful display of Renaissance-style architecture and horticulture at what remains the largest castle in Scandinavia. Frederiksborg Castle was built in the early 17th century for King Christian IV, who demolished the original residence acquired by his father Frederik II to establish a magnificent fortress. However, in 1859, a major fire destroyed much of the castle, and a national collection and lottery were held to rebuild the structure.
