Viking Cruises

58 | Viking Explorer Society News From fairytale castles to impenetrable fortresses, Oonagh Turner shines a light on the mesmerising buildings that you can visit on selected river and ocean journeys with Viking. FANTASTIC FORTRESSES REICHSBURG CASTLE, GERMANY The castle that towers over the town of Cochem on the Moselle River has had a colourful history. Originally built to collect tolls from passing ships around 1100, it changed hands between various monarchies before falling victim to French troops in 1689. Standing tall but ruined for centuries, it wasn't until the late-19th century that a wealthy Berliner snapped it up and restored it to its former glory. Take a tour to discover the 1,000 years of varying tastes that narrate its fascinating history and enjoy the expansive views. A visit to the ancient Reichsburg Castle is included on the Cities of Light journey. HIROSHIMA CASTLE, JAPAN Originally built at the turn of the 16th century by the powerful lord Mari Terumoto, Hiroshima Castle was once a hugely significant seat of power in Japan. It managed to avoid the demolition that other Japanese castles faced during the Meiji Restoration, but like the rest of Hiroshima, was destroyed by the bombing in 1945. The castle has since been rebuilt, and today stands as a stunning replica of the original, in traditional Japanese style and surrounded by colourful trees. It also houses a museum of Hiroshima pre-WWII. Experience the beauty of Hiroshima Castle during a Far Eastern Horizons journey through Asia. SCHÖNBRUNN PALACE, AUSTRIA Once the main summer residence of the Hapsburg rulers, Vienna's Schönbrunn Palace is a magnificently important architectural monument with a heritage spanning back over 300 years. Sometimes referred to as the Austrian Palace of Versailles, it has a certain renaissance feel in its lavishness and grandeur that is reminiscent of the Parisian palace. There is an impressive 435 acres of immaculate garden, the palace itself houses around 1,000 people, and its interiors are decorated with gold, mirrors and frescoes. Tour the magnificent home of the Hapsburg dynasty as an optional excursion whilst in Vienna during our Romantic Danube journey. 2 1 3

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