The Jewel of the North
Floating like a golden vision on an island in the Lake of Schwerin, Schwerin Castle (Schweriner Schloss) is one of the most significant and beautiful creations of Romantic Historicism in Europe. Often referred to as the "Neuschwanstein of the North," it is a riot of towers, cupolas, and pinnacles that reflect perfectly in the surrounding waters. For centuries, this site was the residence of the Dukes and Grand Dukes of Mecklenburg-Schwerin. Today, it serves a dual purpose as the seat of the State Parliament (Landtag) of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern and a magnificent museum.
The castle is a masterpiece of architectural storytelling. It doesn't just sit on the landscape; it interacts with it. The reflection of its golden spires in the deep blue lake creates an image of fairy-tale perfection that draws visitors from all over the world. With its 653 rooms, it is a labyrinth of luxury, history, and politics.
History: From Slavic Fort to Ducal Palace
The history of the location is far older than the 19th-century facade suggests. The first written record dates back to 965 AD, when a merchant named Ibrahim ibn Yaqub described a Slavic fortress on the island built by the Obotrites. In 1160, this fort was conquered by Henry the Lion, Duke of Saxony, marking the beginning of German rule in the region. The strategic value of the island was recognized early on, providing natural defense and control over the lake.
For the next seven centuries, the castle evolved with the fortunes of the Dukes of Mecklenburg. It changed face many times, from a medieval fortress to a Renaissance palace (traces of which, like the terracotta reliefs, still remain). However, the defining moment came in the mid-19th century. Grand Duke Friedrich Franz II wanted a residence that reflected the power and prestige of his dynasty. Between 1845 and 1857, the renowned architects Georg Adolf Demmler and Friedrich August StĂŒler transformed the heterogeneous complex into a unified, romantic palace inspired by the French Renaissance chĂąteaux of the Loire Valley (specifically Chambord).
The result was a stunning success. But history was not always kind. In 1913, a major fire destroyed about a third of the building, including the magnificent Golden Hall. It was rebuilt, but soon after, the monarchy fell in 1918. During the 20th century, the castle served variously as a museum, a teacher training college, and a hospital during WWII. Since 1990, it has been the political heart of the state, housing the parliament in a modern conversion within the ancient walls, blending democratic function with aristocratic form.
Architecture: A Symphony of Styles
Schwerin Castle is a prime example of Historicismâa style that celebrated the past by borrowing elements from different eras. The exterior is dominated by the main tower, crowned with a golden cupola, and a forest of chimneys and turrets. The facade is adorned with statues of Mecklenburg rulers, allegorical figures, and the Niklot statue (an equestrian statue of the Obotrite prince).
The Throne Room
The interior is a showcase of 19th-century craftsmanship. The most spectacular room is the Throne Room. It features columns of Carrara marble, a ceiling decorated with golden stucco, and huge cast-iron doors that are gilded to look like solid gold. It was designed to impress and intimidate, symbolizing the divine right of the Grand Dukes. The red velvet drapery and the massive chandeliers complete the image of royal power.
The Ancestral Gallery
The Ancestral Gallery (Ahnengalerie) is lined with portraits of the Dukes of Mecklenburg, tracing the lineage back to the middle ages. It provides a visual history of the family that ruled this land for over 800 years. The gallery is not just a corridor but a statement of legitimacy and continuity.
The Dining Room and Library
The Dining Room, with its long table set for a state banquet, and the Library, with its intricate wood paneling, offer a glimpse into the daily life of the court. The craftsmanship of the parquet floorsâdifferent in every roomâis particularly noteworthy, featuring complex geometric patterns made from rare woods.
Legends: The PetermÀnnchen
Schwerin Castle has one of the most famous ghosts in Germany: the **PetermÀnnchen** (Little Peterman). Unlike the terrifying specters of other castles, the PetermÀnnchen is generally benevolent. He is described as a small man, no more than a few feet tall, dressed in 17th-century cavalier clothes. He carries a lantern and a large bunch of keys.
Legend says he acts as the castle's guardian. He wakes up sleeping guards, rewards honest servants, and punishes thieves or lazy staff by playing pranks or making noises. During the Thirty Years' War, he is said to have driven away an invading general by plaguing him with nightmares and noise until he fled the castle. Today, he is the mascot of the city, and visitors might spot his image in souvenirs or even encounter an actor dressed as him during special tours. It is said that he uses a network of secret tunnels under the lake to move around, tunnels that have never been found.
The Gardens: A Baroque Masterpiece
The castle is surrounded by extensive gardens that are an attraction in themselves. The **Burggarten** (Castle Garden) on the island features an Orangery, a grotto, and statues that create a romantic atmosphere. A bridge connects the island to the Schlossgarten (Palace Garden), a vast baroque park designed by Peter Joseph Lenné. It features a system of canals (the "Schwimmende Wiese" or Floating Meadow), avenues of lime trees, and monumental axes of sight that direct the eye back to the glittering castle. The Orangery is a stunning structure of cast iron and glass, a testament to 19th-century industrial beauty.
Visitor Information
Getting There
Schwerin is the capital of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern and is easily accessible by train from Hamburg (approx. 1 hour) or Berlin (approx. 2 hours). The castle is a short walk or tram ride from the main station. The city itself is charming, with a well-preserved old town that complements the castle visit.
Tours and Museum
The castle museum is open Tuesday to Sunday (closed Mondays). It covers three floors of the historic apartments. Audio guides are available in multiple languages and are highly recommended. Since the castle also houses the parliament, some areas might be restricted, but the museum route is generally open. Photography is allowed without flash.
Boat Trips
To fully appreciate the "floating" nature of the castle, a boat trip on Lake Schwerin is essential. The "White Fleet" (Weisse Flotte) offers tours that circle the island, providing the classic postcard view of the facade reflecting in the water. In summer, the Orangery café offers a beautiful spot for coffee and cake with a lake view, allowing you to soak in the atmosphere of one of Germany's most romantic locations.