Frankenstein Castle in Germany: photo, description, myths, history
Do you want to remember your vacation in Germany? To get goosebumps from what you see? To visit the place where the shooting of the famous film took place and about which mystical legends are composed? Then I advise you to definitely visit the Frankenstein Castle in Darmstadt!
Story
Frankenstein Castle (Burg Frankenstein) is a very mysterious and atmospheric place. It was built in 1250 on the Odenwald hill, from where curious and fearless tourists enjoy amazing views of the city. Then he had nothing to do with the Frankensteins, because he was built by Konrad Reitz von Breuberg. He received a place for the construction of this legendary landmark today as a dowry for his lovely wife.
Frankensteins appeared here in the 14th century. They were neither magicians nor mad scientists. The Frankensteins were just knights. In those days, the castle was repeatedly attempted, but to no avail. Indeed, there were many who wanted to own it. Yes, and the knights of those times had a passion in their blood to become the owner of what does not belong to them.
Later, the Frankensteins were awarded the honorary title of barons and, unfortunately, their family was rapidly fading away within the walls of this majestic castle. There were times when the castle served as a hospital and a military prison.
Legends of Conrad Dippel von Frankenstein
The one who glorified this place to the whole world was born in the castle here only in 1673. It is not surprising that this place made an indelible impression on people, because dark forests surround it to this day. People made up legends about the alchemist and scientist Johann Konrad Dippel von Frankenstein, who served as a diplomat to the Danish throne. Not many people know that he was sentenced to death. But it so happened that he was pardoned and imprisoned for several years under house arrest in Bornholm. He also became the author of a useful invention – a stethoscope, Dippel's oil, which is used to this day, and other useful things.
Konrad Dippel also built a real laboratory in his castle. It was he who almost destroyed his family nest, conducting dangerous experiments with nitroglycerin. Due to lack of knowledge and incorrect dosage of the substance, one of the towers was practically destroyed as a result of the explosion.
It was rumored that these were not his only experiments. He did not hesitate to use parts of the bodies of people buried in the local cemetery for his research. He did this with one goal – he really wanted to find the secret of eternal life. Then he disappeared unexpectedly for everyone. Later, he was found in his own laboratory in an attack, and various body parts were scattered everywhere. Naturally, after that, a rumor spread that the soul had not left this place, so the scientist Konrad Dippel is still wandering around the roof, banging bones, in the hope of re-entering his laboratory.
Brothers Grimm and Mary Shelley
In search of inspiration in 1812, the famous brothers Grimm (Jakob and Welhelm) visited the foot of the Odenwald. They also became aware of the frightening legends of this place. Naturally, they wanted to share their impressions with their translator Mary Jane Clairmont, who translated their fairy tales from German into English. You probably already guessed that she was Mary Shelley's stepmother.
There is also another legend that says that the writer Mary Shelley was inspired by this story to write a novel about Frankenstein. However, in her diaries, this fact was not confirmed. Many argue that she wrote her novel while being at Byron's villa. On vacation, she idly spent time and discussed with her neighbors the experiments of Darwin and Luigi Galvani. By the way, translated into Russian, Frankenstein is the Stone of the Franks.
Halloween at Frankenstein Castle
Today, there is practically nothing left of the former grandeur of the castle, but this is not a hindrance for the locals, who annually celebrate here a holiday no less mystical than the place itself – Halloween. This is the largest “scary” party in Europe. Tourists are greeted at the entrance by vampires, werewolves, mummies, witches and other evil spirits.
All of them invite you to take a fascinating walk through the dungeons of the castle, visit the tower of horror and, if you're lucky, see the ghost of a scientist. It is simply impossible to refuse such a tempting offer. Entrance to the party of dark forces is paid. Impressive natures are advised to stay as far as possible.
fountain of youth
Only the Fountain of Youth, which is located in close proximity, contrasts with Frankenstein's castle. They say that everyone who tastes its healing water will restore their youth and attractiveness. But not everything is so simple, there are certain rules. However, this is a real find for ladies. It is not surprising that even ladies of advanced age give up everything to pass their test on the first night when the sky is illuminated by the full moon after Walpurgis Night. Those who pass it to the end get what they want.
Secrets of the forest surrounding the castle
Another curious fact. There are magnetic stones in the forest that surrounds the castle. They allegedly created radio interference at an American military base. It was located here, of course, in the past. Someone believes that it is not the stones that are to blame, but the hill itself, which was endowed with mysterious properties by the lightning that struck. And it happened thousands of years ago. In general, some secrets are shrouded in darkness.
In the forest, you can also take leisurely walks along asphalt paths and relax on benches, enjoying the mystery of this place. Here you can often meet couples with children. Time is not powerful here, and therefore everything here is shrouded in terrifying silence. Which, however, very eloquently characterizes the entire surrounding space.
How to get there
To get to the castle, it is not necessary to use the services of a tour desk. You yourself, knowing all the legends of this place, will be able to organize a trip. In addition, admission is free for everyone, without exception. So, to get to the castle by car, use the A5 autobahn. If you didn't rent a car, then trams that follow routes 6, 7 and 8 will help you. You definitely won’t miss a stop.