Ludwig II. was exposed toRichard Wagner’s operaLohengrin at the age of 15 ½. This started a lifelong obsession with Wagner,his music and mythology and influenced Ludwig’s architectural designs.
Even though Neuschwanstein was not finished during his lifetime, Ludwig moved into the Palas in 1884 and continued to supervise construction. By 1886 his finances had gotten so out of control, he had applied for a credit from his cabinet, which was denied. He then applied to parliament for a credit and then the Bavarian government decided he needed to be deposed.
A couple of attempts failed due to his lack of appearance and the enthusiasm of local supporters forcing the commission away, but in the end he had to leave the palace on the 11th of June 1886. He was taken into protective custody and only a couple of days later him and his supervisor Bernhard von Gudden were found dead at the shore of Lake Starnberg. The cause of death is still unknown and several conspiracy theories maintain that he was murdered for a range of reasons.
Neuschwanstein had been intended as a private refuge for the king, but very soon after his death it was opened to the public to try to recoup some of the expenses. This proved so popular that by 1899 the construction costs had been balanced and that included the finishing of some of the projects. The extent of Ludwig’s plans prohibited following the plans faithfully and compromises were made. These will be more easily understood during your actual visit of the interior of the castle. Enjoy the extravaganza this trip on your Alpine Gems tour will display and let yourself be transported to a mystical magical time.
Author: Petra Alsbach-Stevens
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