Originating in Europe, a castle is an architectural innovation built by nobility throughout the Middle Ages, usually as a private fortified residence. There are 72 castles on the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, some dating back as far as the 9th century, and surprisingly several of these incredible historic buildings are still being used as homes. Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany The iconic Neuschwanstein Castle (Photo: Thomas Wolf/Wikimedia Commons) Despite being one of the newest castles on the list, Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany is easily one of the most visually dramatic. A true fairy-tale castle, the property is said to have been the inspiration for Disneyland’s Sleeping Beauty Castle.
