Apr 19 2008
Day 3 - The Castle
Today we visited King Ludwig’s famous Neuschwanstein Castle. This structure served as the inspiration for Walt Disney’s castle. To reach the castle, we had to climb up the mountain on which it sits. Our hike took about 30 minutes and included incredible views of the town below. Some students decided to take a horse carriage ride up the hill, while others chose to run.When we reached the top of the mountain and started our tour of the actual castle, we had to climb 134 stairs to the third floor. This floor was the only level of the castle that was ever completed. We learned that the castle had 64 rooms and only 16 were finished. King Ludwig really didn’t spend any time in the castle. In fact, he only lived in his castle for a couple of months. During his stay he spent most of his time in the dressing room, which can only be entered through a secret entrance door from his bedroom. We noticed that there were a lot of sculptures and portraits of swans. The swan holds significant meaning in Bavaria and also serves as a symbol of loyalty. We were surprised to hear that King Ludwig died at the young age of 40 and left behind no wife or children. His death came before the completion of his castle.After visiting the castle we began an eight hour bus ride to Prague in the Czech Republic. The scenery during our drive was amazing. From the windows on the bus, we could see beautiful mountains, some covered in snow, and landscape unlike any we have ever observed in America. We even noticed that one of the small towns had a ski lift. Another highlight of our day included the group discussions on the bus. We talked about what we experienced in Germany and our thoughts on the country, the culture, and yesterday’s visit to the concentration camp in Dachau.After eights hours on the bus, we finally arrived in Prague. Right away, we noticed the difference in the architectural styles from Munich. We were also reminded that after WWII, the nation of Czechoslovakia became Communist. At first they were encouraged by the propaganda spread by the Russians. They believed that Communism would be the best thing for them. Later on, they realized that they were lied to. They finally won their independence by marching in Wenceslas Square and demanding control of the government. Since there was no bloodshed it was called the Velvet Revolution.
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I remember the Castle so well. The video is an AWESOME addition—really makes us feel like we are there with all of you. We continue to keep you in our thoughts. Love Mrs. Skipper:)
I figure you guys our telling us about your differences well here is some news from back in the states……….In sports the longest baseball game played in about 15 years was Won by the Colorado rockies after 22 innings of game play, the Celtics begin there post season run against the Hawks tomorrow (ill keep you updated). The weather here is still pretty warm, seriously you guys look cold over there and I’m wearing shorts. Anyways, have fun and be safe guys.
And Miguel..dont forget that the bruins have come back to tie the series with Montreal 3-3.. and the Red Sox won again today:) Spring finally seems to be here.. the weather is beautiful—60’s and 70’s and sunny.. Boston Marathon is tomorrow ..the city is jammed.. love you all..Mrs. Skipper:)
omg.! the picture is so beautiful.. i wish i was there with you guys.! =(
miss yall