The Castle

While visiting Stuttgart, Germany, I took a trip down a long narrow, winding pathway in a horse drawn carriage. Sitting high above a hazy mist stands the most magnificent castle with deep vibrant green trees surrounding it on the mountainside. There is a breeze blowing and a hint of a light fragrance of fresh rain and native flowers floating on the air. Along the cobblestone path there is an array of bright, blooming flowers leading up to the gates. Beyond those gates is a huge castle with beautiful courtyards, palatial rooms, and magnificent architecture.

            There are beautiful gardens and intricate stonework on the castle grounds. Surrounding the castle is an immense, circular stone wall protecting the castle. The only entrance in the wall is through a large gate. Inside the wall is a peaceful, serene courtyard, complete with stone statues and even a goldfish pond. Covering most of the grounds are bright and vibrant garden flowers with an occasional shrub. A veranda stretches out over the cliffs with a breathtaking view of the valley below.

            Through the great oaken doors, there is a great hall with walls lined with tapestries and paintings and a floor covered with ornate rugs. On each side of the great hall are curving staircases leading to a balcony above. Past the staircases are three doors, one to the front and one on either side. To the left are the kitchens, filled with cobblestone ovens, and the door to the right is a small chapel with angelic murals and a statue of an archangel at the front. Through the center door is the large dining hall with a long wooden table and fireplaces on all three walls.

            At the top of the staircase, a balcony looks out over the great hall. To the back is a set of iron gilded double doors leading to the throne room. Through those doors are rows of stone benches marching up to the dais. There, on a platform, sits a large golden throne with red velvet cushions and a round ruby shaped like the rising sun placed above the head. Leaving the throne room to the left is a door leading to the tower. Up a winding staircase awaits the royal bedchambers. In the center is a large canopy bed with gauzy curtains enclosing it, and a fireplace with gold vines running up to the mantle.

            As I departed from the majestic halls of the castle, I felt a profound sense of regret. Going down those cobblestone streets toward the village, I longed to spend more time lounging in the expansive gardens or exploring the long halls of the castle. The beautiful fortress was one of the most magical places I have ever visited. Hopefully, I will return to this astounding place of unbelievable art to renew my spirit with beauty.