Situated high above the River Neckar , Heidelberg Castle is one of Germany’s most romantic locations. It has had a long and turbulent history since it was first constructed in the early 15th century as a residence for the Palatine princes, the powerful secular rulers who presided over this part of southern Germany during the Holy Roman Empire. Having been totally destroyed during the Thirty Years War, and later by the French in 1689 and 1693, the red sandstone building was struck by lightning in 1764 and even its stones were taken for use in other building projects. All this rebuilding has led to a variety of architectural styles and yet the castle’s delapidated air adds to its charm. The best way to reach the site is by cable car. There are excellent views over the university city of Heidelberg and the Neckar Valley from the summit.

Willkommen in Heidelberg! Thank you for reading. The Heidelberger Schloss is a famous ruin in Germany and landmark of Heidelberg. The Castle - attractive palace buildings in Gothic Renaissance style and the magnificent gardens.
However, When I think calmly - nowadays it is just the ruins, awesome ruins!
The castle is providing exciting new inspiration to composers. painters and many poets.
The best depictions are Turner - who stayed in Heidelberg several times between 1817 and 1844, and painted town and the castle many times.
And you are already know about Goethe. If you have a chance - go to there and stand at balcony in the evening - and please watch the town.

1987 - abroad for only the second time in my life, and really only the first time outside a military installation. Old Heidelberg and the castle were a marvelous experience, although finding a McDonalds in the middle of the Old City was a bit jarring (guess where our group ate lunch, though - yep, Mickey D's). There were several shops with the usual tourist souvenirs, which really didn't do much for the ambiance, but as popular a tourist attraction as Heidelberg is, I guess it can't really be avoided. Unless there have been drastic changes, I highly recommend a day-long visit.

most beautiful when looked at from the outside. Gaze up from the old town or take the so called "philosophers' path" on the other side of the river to enjoy the best views. The inside of the castle ruin is not really worth it unless you have nothing better to do. There is not much, thus a giant oak barrel is the main attraction.

Conclusion: the setting and look from the outside is nice, the inside of the ruin can be safely omitted

I'd have to be nuts to say anything else, wouldn't I? The castle is quite impressive - and the tour guides put on a good show. It may be the location - towering above the city, yet right inside it - that give this particular castle its charm. The river walk is marvellous. And there's a small church on the other side of the river from the castle that has a splendid organ with 3 ranks of trompete!