Neuchwanstein, Day 5, 06-09-2019

No trip to Bavaria would be complete without a visit to the Neuchwanstein castle. This castle is commonly known as the Cinderella Castle. It served as the inspiration for Disneyland's Sleeping Beauty Castle. This castle has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. More than 61,000,000 people have visited since it was opened to the public. Approximately 1,300,000 people visit each year. As many as 6,000 visitors visit each day. We can attest to that. We were a part of the 6,000 plus visitors that came during our visit. I would highly recommend that you do not plan a visit on the weekend.
This castle was intended to be the home of King Ludwig. In the end the King lived in the castle for 172 days before his passing.
Due to its secluded location, the castle survived destruction in WWII. The Nazis used the castle as a location to store Nazi plunder that was taken from France during the war. The castle is on the German tentative list for a future designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
For Jerry and Mary Ann Hankins, this trip was kind of like traveling to Mecca. They have made so many trips to Disney World through the years with their children and grandchildren that it must have seemed like they were coming home. I sensed a tear in Mary Ann's eyes when she first saw the castle.
After leaving the castle we drove to Ehrwald, Austria. There is a monument in the city park commemorating a heavy air battle on August 3rd, 1944 over Tirol. German fighters shot down 8 Liberator B-24 bombers of the 15th USAAF. 30 crew members were killed and 49 were able to save themselves by bailing out. They were all captured and became prisoners of war.
Next on the list, we met J.C. and Jenny Hamilton, along with J.C.'s brother and sister, Todd and Susan, at the Fraundorfer restaurant in Garmish. This dinner was set up months ago when we knew we would all be in the same area at the same time. The Fraundorfer is a traditional German restaurant. The food is excellent, the company was great, and the German musician and dancer put on quite a show. It was a festive evening and ended all too quickly. It was great to meet with friends so far from home. We have not slowed down, touring in the day time, listening to Auburn baseball at night. All I have to say is War Eagle. Tomorrow....the Eagle.s Nest.