"The Castle Road"

Along the scenic route the times of the emperors and prince electors come to life again.

There are more than 90 castles and palaces along the Castle Road, among them Schwetzingen Palace. Once a medieval moated castle, it was converted into a palace and became the summer residence of the Electors Palatine. Half an hour's drive away is Bad Wimpfen. Emperor Frederick Barbarossa of the House of Hohenstaufen had a fortified palace built there in the 12th century. Nowadays its remains are a unique memorial to the bygone era. Further along the route, Heldburg Fortress rises 400 meters above the Castle Road. From here, fire beacons visible from afar could send signals in times of danger. The fortress fell into disrepair until it was restored in the late 19th century.