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Historical places #7 in Füssen

Hohes Schloss

4.5 · 2,586 reviews
A quiet place for cultural contemplation
Hohes Schloss, Magnuspl. 10, 87629 Füssen
Interesting facts
1

The castle features a rare example of 16th-century 'trompe l'oeil' courtyard painting that realistically simulates architectural features.

2

It served as the primary administrative and residential seat for the Bishops of Augsburg in the Füssen region for centuries.

3

The interior chapel retains late-Gothic architecture and vaulted ceilings from the 15th century.

4

The castle complex houses the Füssen State Gallery, which focuses specifically on art from the Swabian and Allgäu regions.

5

The building was constructed atop a former Roman fortress site.

Overview

The Hohes Schloss is one of Germany's best-preserved late-Gothic castle complexes, functioning historically as a summer residence for the Prince-Bishops of Augsburg. It serves as the primary municipal gallery for the city of Füssen, housing a collection of paintings and sculptures from the late Gothic and Renaissance periods. The courtyard features unique 16th-century illusionistic paintings, known as 'trompe l'oeil', which depict architectural elements that do not physically exist. The site is situated on a hill overlooking the historic Old Town of Füssen. It includes a dedicated museum focusing on the art history of the Allgäu region. Visitors can access the interior courtyard and specific exhibition rooms through the city museum infrastructure. The structure's foundations date back to the 13th century, with significant late-Gothic expansion occurring under Bishop Friedrich von Hauenstein.

Photo spot

The internal courtyard, specifically framing the painted illusionistic window frames on the facade.

Insider tips

Bring a camera with a wide-angle lens to capture the unique trompe l'oeil courtyard paintings.

The courtyard is accessible to the public, offering a quiet perspective away from the main tourist streets.

Allow extra time to examine the wooden ceiling carvings in the Knights' Hall.

What to avoid

Do not mistake this for Neuschwanstein Castle; this is a separate, authentic historical building located directly in the town.

Good to know

Closed on Mondays throughout the year.

Etiquette

Maintain silence in gallery areas; do not touch historical wall paintings in the courtyard.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1.5-2 hours
Best time to visit
Late spring or early autumn, when the museum is open and the weather allows for comfortable walking on the steep path to the hill.
Address
Hohes Schloss, Magnuspl. 10, 87629 Füssen
47.567, 10.698
Get directions
Details
Key exhibitsLate-Gothic panel paintings, 16th-century trompe l'oeil courtyard frescos, Swabian wood sculptures.

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1.5-2 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late spring or early autumn, when the museum is open and the weather allows for comfortable walking on the steep path to the hill..

The internal courtyard, specifically framing the painted illusionistic window frames on the facade.

Close by you'll find Neuschwanstein Castle, Forest Experience Center Ziegelwies, Benediktinerkloster St. Mang.