Castle Design: Malbork Castle

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The Malbork Castle is located in Poland. The castle is the largest castle in the world by surface area, and the largest brick building in Europe. The castle is a classic example of a medieval fortress. (ABOVE) The classic medieval fortress is done in brick. You can see the scale of the wall by looking at the people walking along the side of the wall. I love the two towers in the center. (BELOW 1) The center courtyard. From the courtyard the castle has a much less grand feel. It's more inviting. The castle is located along the river Nogat. (BELOW 2) Inside the tall walls of the castle is a cobblestone walkway and lush greenery. The castle looks like a college campus. The brick walls are full of history. (BELOW 3) I love this shot of the castle. The roof has this fantastic pattern on the main building. What do you think of the castle? 

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Castle Design: Egeskov Castle

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Egeskov Castle is a 14th century castle located in Denmark. The castle is Europe's best preserved Renaissance water castle. The castle is constructed on oaken piles and located in a small lake to fortify it due to general civil unrest. (ABOVE) The round-arched windows and gabled roof are stunning. I love the ivy growing up the left side of the wall. There is a large lawn around the house, that is beautifully landscaped. (BELOW 1) The castle looks like a university. I love the Lilly pads and cobblestone driveway. The driveway was added on later. (BELOW 2) Originally the only way to get to the castle was via a drawbridge which can be seen here. I love the topiaries and long drive up to the castle. (BELOW 3) I love this photograph, the sunset setting on the brick, captures the beauty and age of the brick. The brick roof looks like two cathedrals. The water is crystal clear, what a fabulous reflection. What do you think of the castle? 

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Castle Design: Castello del Valentino

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The Castello del Valentino is a historic castle located in Italy. It is one of the Residences of the Royal House of Savoy, along with the Castle of Racconigi and many others. Between 1630 and 1660, the castle was expanded and renovated by architect Di Castellamonte. The castle has seen little change in appearance since then. Today, the building houses the architecture faculty of the Polytechnic University of Turin. There is a fantastic botanical garden on the grounds! (ABOVE) The castle has a classic Italian architectural design. The castle is designed in a "u" shape. In front of the commanding gate is a large green lawn with much planting and flowers. (BELOW 1) Once you enter through the main gate, you are greeted by an inner courtyard. The stone floor features a lovely design. The colors, and design of the courtyard work well with the architecture of the structure. (BELOW 2) A close up view of the architectural details. I love all the windows. They are so thoughtfully adorned. The windows are all differently shaped, and adorned. (BELOW 3) The back of the castle faces the water. The back of the castle is very different from the front. While the front is stone, the back is brick. The back of the castle surprised me. I was expecting to see something similar to the front. What do you think of the castle? 

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Castle Design: Castle of Racconigi

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The Castle of Racconigi is located in Italy. The castle supposedly dates back to around the year 1000. The castle's architecture pays reference to many different architectural styles. (ABOVE) I love the contrast of red stone and white marble. The front facade has a very commanding presence. (BELOW 1) An aerial view of the castle located in Racconigi. As you can see, the back of the castle has many gardens and trees. The castle is the focal point of the city. (BELOW 2) The rear of the castle is far less embellished. Gone is the contrasting white marble, found only on the front facade. (BELOW 3) A close up of the center dome. The pagoda style roof, adds a very unique architectural detail. I find the dome to be rather modern, however, the four columns give it that neoclassical look. What do you think of the castle? 

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Castle Design: Matsumoto Castle

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Matsumoto Castle is located in Japan. The castle is constructed of wood and was built over 500 years ago, making it one of Japan's national treasures. In fact, Matsumoto is the oldest surviving wooden castle. (ABOVE) The castle is finished in black on the exterior. It's set on top of a stone foundation. (BELOW 1) A closer view of the castle and a different perspective. What I find interesting about the architecture is its variation in roof heights, shapes, etc. The roof is extremely commanding, the focal point. (BELOW 2) To get to the castle, one must cross this bright red bridge. The castle was built around water to be better protected against unwanted visitors. (BELOW 3) A close up view of the roof. The roof is extremely detailed. Many nature inspired symbols such as the fish, flowers, leaves, etc., are decorated throughout. I'm so inspired by Matsumoto Castle! What do you think? 

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Castle Design: Dover Castle

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Often described as the "Key to England", Dover Castle is the largest castle in England. Dover Castle is considered as "nationally important" and an archaeological site as it has been given protection against unauthorized change. (ABOVE) The castle's architecture is very minimal and therefore quite gorgeous. I love that the castle does not have the typical medieval look. (BELOW 1) The grounds are wonderfully landscaped adding to the overall beauty of the castle. (BELOW 2) A view of the castle from farther away shows its size and beauty. It's perfectly situated to have views of the grounds and surrounding landscape. Dover Castle is a wonderful historic castle was much architectural charm and simplicity. What do you think of the castle? 

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Castle Design: Château de Pierrefonds

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Situated to the north of Paris in the commune of Pierrefonds is the Château de Pierrefonds. It's a gorgeous medieval castle full of architectural details built in the 12th century. During the 19th century the castle underwent a major restoration. (ABOVE) With a thin blanket of snow the castle looks more gorgeous than ever. It has a grand feel, but still feels like a home. The windows are a definite favorite of mine. (BELOW 1) You can really see the front of the castle here. Both the castle and the Vanderbilt's "Biltmore" estate share similar architectural elements. (BELOW 2) A view of the castle from farther back. The castle has many turrets, all of which adds to its medieval look. What do you think of the castle? 

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Castle Design: Castle Howard

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Castle Howard was completed in 1712 in North Yorkshire, England. It was designed by noted architect John Vanbrugh in the English Baroque style for the 3rd Earl of Carlisle. (ABOVE) The front facade of the castle is very detailed and quite grand. I like how the center fountain shows its age as it gives the fountain character. (BELOW 1) The roof features many sculptures as well as chimney's. The dome is the key attraction, and without it the castle would not feel as grand. I love the gold detailing. (BELOW 2) The estate has multiple gardens that are wonderfully designed. From the garden you have a clear view of the castle. (BELOW 3) From this wider shot, you have a clear view of the right and left wings. Much of the castle's details are on the roof. If you happen to visit the castle, you will see many Peacocks roaming the grounds! What do you think of Castle Howard?

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Castle Design: Arundel Castle

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Arundel Castle is a restored Norman style castle located in England. It was founded in 1067 by Roger de Montgomery. Currently Arundel Castle is the home of the Duke and Duchess of Norfolk and their children.  "Arundel Castle was built during the reign of William the Conqueror as a fortification for the mouth of the River Arun and a defensive position for the surrounding land against invasion from the continent. The original structure was a motte a double bailey castle" (C&MH). (ABOVE) The front of the castle is a magnificent site. As you drive along the driveway you are surrounded by a stunning castle that holds so much history. What I find architecturally beautiful is the variation in window shapes. The three large "u" shape windows directly in front are gorgeous. The roof of the castle is also beautiful with its different shapes and heights. (BELOW 1) To enter the front courtyard you must pass through either the left or right archway. The archways are portals into a different world! A world of pure architectural beauty. (BELOW 2) A view looking down shows the breezeway. This photograph clearly calls to attention the different building materials used. I love how each face of the exterior uses a different material. (BELOW 3) A birds eye view of the castle. What a stunning view! I wish I could be the Duke of Norfolk for a day, just to experience what it's like to live here! The only downside is the castle is haunted...What do you think of the castle? 

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Castle Design: Hluboká nad Vltavou Castle

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Hluboká nad Vltavou is a town located in the Czech Republic and home to the Hluboká nad Vltavou Windsor style castle. (ABOVE) As you make your way towards the castle its grandeur grabs you. I love the long walkway as it causes you to admire its beauty slowly as you approach its front archway. (BELOW 1) The side of the castle has impressive balconies. The flowers and ivy are a great touch. The windows are remarkable, I would love to own this place! (BELOW 2) The castle's center courtyard has so many brilliant architectural elements. The stone carved murals on the center face of the castle is exquisite. So many details! (BELOW 3) A view of the castle from its right side. The pink flowers against the white castle looks beautiful. The castle is a popular place for weddings, I'm not surprised! What do you think?

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Castle Design: Książ Castle

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Built in Silesia, Poland in 1292, Książ Castle is one of the most beautiful structures in the world. Książ Castle is the third largest castle in Poland. I couldn't image what the walls of this castle would say if they could talk. So much history! (ABOVE) I love the mix of styles in the castle's architecture. One side of the castle has a more medieval look, while the other side has a more French classic look. The right side of the castle is a beautiful salmon color. The color stands out beautifully against the sea of trees below. The cupola's and green roof, add so much character to the structure. (BELOW 1) I love the large windows over the front entrance. (BELOW 2) I think this photograph of the back of the castle is amazing, as it highlights the wonderful stone work. What do you think of the Książ Castle?

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