Viking Cruises

Destination Guide - Central Europe

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Call us on 138 747 (AU), 0800 447 913 (NZ), contact your local Viking travel agent or visit viking.com | 17 ELTZ CASTLE Nestled in the lush hills above the Moselle River, Eltz Castle is a fairy tale brought to life. This enchanting fortress has been owned by the same family for over 850 years, surviving wars and conflicts that ravaged the region. Intertwined with the Holy Roman Empire, it played a crucial role in the region's defense and politics. With its towers and turrets soaring from a rocky perch, the castle reflects the evolution of European styles from Romanesque to Baroque. Step inside to explore the decorated halls and rooms that showcase the castle's remarkable history; 15th-century murals adorn the walls and The Knight's Hall features displays of armour and weapons that date back to the 12th century. GÖTTWEIG ABBEY Overlooking Austria's Wachau Valley is the gracious Göttweig Abbey. Built on land donated by Passau's Bishop Altmann in 1083, this Benedictine monastery has been a centre of learning, art and faith for nearly a millennium. Step through the church's neoclassical portal to admire its colourful and ornate interior. The abbey's museum chronicles its 900-year history as a centre of religious life and its role as a monastic retreat. Climb the Imperial Staircase, crowned by one of the largest and most spectacular ceiling frescoes in the world. The adjoining princely and imperial rooms showcase splendid artwork from the abbey's own collections. WATCH VIDEO

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