7 special castles in the world

Built in one night, inspired by Disney or said to be the home of Dracula, these castles attract visitors for their history and outlandish features.

Sunomata Castle (Gifu, Japan): Also known as Ichiya, meaning “castle built in one night”, Sunomata was built in the mid-16th century by General Toyotomi Hideyoshi in the city of Ogaki. Legend has it that this is a stronghold that was silently built in the heart of the opponent, by pre-hewing columns and pre-built walls, then moved to assemble in the night. The current castle was reconstructed in 1991, modeled after the nearby Ogaki Castle. Image: Hide-sp. Bran Castle (Transylvania, Romania): This castle is often associated with Dracula. Vlad III, prince of Wallachia – aka Vlad III Dracula – is considered the prototype for the character of the vampire count in Bram Stoker’s classic novel. According to legend, the real Vlad the Third was briefly imprisoned in Bran Castle in 1462. Fans of the character flocked here to tour the legendary castle. Image: Archeotraveller. Tower of London (London, England): One of England’s most famous castles, the Tower of London – with the White Tower at its center – has a dark history, revolving around prison, torture and death. Convicted people are locked up here and subject to terrible punishment. The shady beheadings and murders taking place here make the castle become an obsession. By the 19th century, this place ended its role and opened to visitors. Image: History. Neuschwanstein Castle (Schwangau, Germany): This place was built in 1869 by Ludwig II, king of Bavaria, as a private retreat. Despite having no real power, Ludwig II maintained a romantic view of a king. He dreamed of living in seclusion in a large castle on top of a mountain, surrounded by art and architecture. That’s why Neuschwanstein was built. In 1886, the king mysteriously drowned, before the castle was completed and admired by millions. In it, Walt Disney liked this place so much that many people believe that he created the castle “Sleeping Beauty” at Disneyland according to its architecture. Image: Wonderful Engineering. Alnwick Castle (Northumberland, England): This place is more famous for being the setting for Hogwarts Castle in the two Harry Potter films. This ancient and massive castle has also appeared in many other hit movies, from Elizabeth to Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves. Image: Englishcoast. Jal Mahal (Jaipur, India): Located in the middle of Man Sagar Lake, Jal Mahal is like a real fairy tale. In the evening or moonlit nights, the splendid white castle reflects on the water, creating a surreal scene for the guests staying here. Interestingly, below this palace there are also 4 secret floors, equally beautiful as the architectural wonder above. Image: Pinterest. Mont Saint Michel (Normandy, France): Located on an island off the coast of Normandy, this castle attracts more than 3 million visitors a year. At high tide, the entire surrounding area is flooded, creating a magical and unique scene. Image: Big Seven Travel.