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Have you ever watched Harry Potter and admired the grand Hogwarts Castle? Some of the largest castles in the world are just as magical—except they’re real! These massive fortresses, like Poland’s Malbork Castle and England’s Windsor Castle, were home to kings and knights. They hold fascinating stories of battles, royalty, and medieval life. While Prague Castle in the Czech Republic is the world’s largest castle complex, Windsor Castle in Berkshire, England is the largest inhabited castle in the world. Curious to read more? Let’s take a look at the top 10 largest castles in the world.
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Top 10 Largest Palaces in the World
Palaces are grand structures that were once home to royals, knights, and rulers. Many of them are now famous historical sites. Here is a list of the top 10 largest palaces in the world.
| Top 10 Largest Palaces in the World | Location | Area (square meters) |
| Malbork Castle | Poland | 143,591 |
| Mehrangarh Fort | India | 81,227 |
| Prague Castle | Czech Republic | 66,761 |
| Windsor Castle | United Kingdom | 54,835 |
| Hohensalzburg Castle | Austria | 54,523 |
| Spis Castle | Slovakia | 49,485 |
| Buda Castle | Hungary | 44,674 |
| Himeji Castle | Japan | 41,468 |
| Citadel of Aleppo | Syria | 39,804 |
| Edinburgh Castle | Scotland | 35,737 |
1. Malbork Castle
Malbork Castle, the largest castles in the world, is a huge brick fortress in Malbork, Poland, built by the Teutonic Knights in the 13th century. It is the largest castle in Europe by land area and stands by the Nogat River. The castle has 3 sections with many rooms, towers, and halls. Moreover, the castle was once home to knights and later Polish kings. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a famous tourist attraction.
2. Mehrangarh Fort
Mehrangarh Fort is a huge fort in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, built-in 1459 by Rao Jodha. It stands 400 feet above the Thar Desert and has strong walls and seven gates. Inside, there are beautiful palaces like Moti Mahal and Phool Mahal, decorated with carvings, mirrors, and paintings. The fort now has museums displaying royal items. It is one of India’s largest forts, the second largest castles in the world, and a famous tourist attraction.
3. Prague Castle
Prague Castle is one of the largest castles in the world and a historic castle in Prague, Czech Republic. It covers about 110 acres and is the official residence of the country’s president. Built-in the 9th century, it was once home to Bohemian kings. The castle has beautiful palaces, churches, and gardens. St. Vitus Cathedral, inside the castle, holds the Bohemian crown jewels. Golden Lane, a small street within the castle, has colourful houses. Prague Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a famous tourist attraction.
4. Windsor Castle
Windsor Castle is the world’s largest occupied castle and has been a royal home for over 900 years. Built by William the Conqueror, it has been home to many kings and queens. The castle hosts important events, including royal ceremonies and state visits. It has beautiful halls, a grand chapel, and a vast library. During World War II, Princess Elizabeth (later Queen Elizabeth II) lived there for safety.
5. Hohensalzburg Castle
Hohensalzburg Fortress is a huge and well-preserved castle in Salzburg, Austria. Built-in 1077 by Archbishop Gebhard, it was expanded over time to protect the prince archbishops. Interestingly, the fortress was never captured by enemies! Today, it has museums showcasing medieval weapons, royal rooms, and even a marionette museum. The grand Golden Chamber and Hall still have their original decorations from 1501.
6. Spis Castle
Spis Castle, one of the largest castles in Europe, stands proudly on a hill in Slovakia. Built in the 12th century, it was once an important political and cultural centre. Over time, it was rebuilt in Gothic and Renaissance styles. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it serves as a museum. Visitors can explore its tower, kitchen, chapel, and even a medieval torture room! It has also been featured in movies like Dragonheart and The Last Legion.
7. Buda Castle
Buda Castle, located in Budapest, Hungary, is a massive and historic fortress built in the 13th century to protect against Mongol attacks. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it offers breathtaking views of the Danube River and Chain Bridge. Visitors can explore the Royal Palace, Fisherman’s Bastion, Matthias Church, and the National Gallery. The castle is a mix of Gothic and Baroque styles and can be reached by funicular or bus.
8. Himeji Castle
Himeji Castle, also called White Heron Castle, is Japan’s most beautiful and well-preserved castle. Built in 1609, it has over 80 buildings connected by winding paths designed to protect against attacks. Unlike many castles, it has never been destroyed by war or disaster. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing. Visitors can explore its six-story wooden main keep, which offers stunning views of Himeji city. The castle’s fish-shaped roof ornaments are believed to protect it from fire, adding to its historical charm.
9. Citadel of Aleppo
The Citadel of Aleppo is a historic fortress in Syria, standing on a limestone hill for over 4,000 years. It is one of the oldest and most important landmarks in the city. Most of its structures were built by the Ayyubids in the 12th and 13th centuries, with later additions from the Ottoman period. The citadel has witnessed many battles, earthquakes, and natural decay but remains a powerful symbol of Aleppo’s rich history. Archaeologists have even discovered a Bronze Age temple inside, decorated with carvings of gods and mythical creatures. Despite damage from conflict in recent years, efforts continue to preserve this incredible site for future generations.
10. Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle is one of Scotland’s most famous landmarks, standing on Castle Rock, a volcanic hill. It was once home to Scottish kings and has a history of battles and sieges. The castle houses the Honours of Scotland (Scotland’s crown jewels) and the Stone of Scone, used in royal coronations. St. Margaret’s Chapel, built in the 12th century, is its oldest surviving structure. Visitors can explore the National War Museum and witness the One O’Clock Gun, a daily cannon-firing tradition since 1861.
FAQs
The Mehrangarh Fort, located in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, is often considered the second-largest castle in the world. Built in the 15th century, it stands on a hill, offering stunning views of Jodhpur. It was built by Rao Jodha, the 15th Rathore ruler of Marwar
Versailles is much bigger than Buckingham Palace. While Buckingham has around 77,000 square meters of floor space, the Palace of Versailles is over 63,000 square meters larger!
The Prague Castle in the Czech Republic is the largest ancient castle in the world. Covering around 70,000 square meters, this historical site dates back to the 9th century and has been home to kings, emperors, and presidents. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit for history lovers!
Windsor Castle in England is the largest occupied castle in the world. It has been home to British monarchs for over 900 years and is still used by the royal family today. Covering around 54,835 square meters, it’s known for its stunning architecture and rich royal history.
Germany is home to over 20,000 castles! Many of these were built during the medieval period and include famous ones like Neuschwanstein Castle, which inspired Disney’s Cinderella Castle. These castles range from grand palaces to medieval fortresses, each with its own unique story.
The Prague Castle in the Czech Republic has over 1,000 rooms! It’s a vast complex that includes churches, palaces, and towers. Each room has its own historical significance, making it a fascinating place to explore.
Interesting Reads
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