Do you want your holiday in Germany to be remembered? To get goosebumps from what you saw? Visit the place where the shooting of the famous film took place and about which mystical legends are made? Then I advise you to visit Frankenstein Castle in Darmstadt by all means!
History
Frankenstein Castle (Burg Frankenstein) is a very mysterious and atmospheric place. It was built in 1250 on the Odenwald hill, from where the curious and fearless tourists have delightful views of the city. Then it had nothing to do with the Frankenstein, because it was built by Konrad Reitz von Breuberg. He received a place for the construction of this legendary landmark today as a dowry for his lovely wife.
Frankenstein appeared here in the XIV century. They were neither magicians nor mad scientists. The Frankensteins were just knights. In those days, the castle was repeatedly attempted, but to no avail. Indeed, there were many who wanted to possess it. Yes, and the knights of those times had a passion in their blood to become the owner of what did not belong to them.
Later, the Frankensteins were awarded the honorary title of barons and, unfortunately, their family was rapidly fading away within the walls of this majestic castle. There were times when the castle served as a hospital and a military prison.
Legends of Konrad Dippel von Frankenstein
The one who glorified this place all over the world was born in the castle here only in 1673. It is not surprising that this place made a lasting impression on people, because it is surrounded, to this day, by dark forests. People made up legends about the alchemist and scientist Johann Konrad Dippel von Frankenstein, who served as a diplomat under the Danish throne. Not many people know that he was sentenced to death. But it so happened that he was pardoned and imprisoned for several years under house arrest in Bornholm. He also became the author of a useful invention - a stethoscope, Dippel oil, which is still used to this day, and other usefulness.
Konrad Dippel also built a real laboratory in his castle. It was he who almost destroyed his ancestral nest, conducting dangerous experiments with nitroglycerin. Due to the lack of knowledge and incorrect dosage of the substance, as a result of the explosion, one of the towers was practically destroyed.
It was rumored that these were not his only experiments. He did not hesitate to use parts of the bodies of people buried in the local cemetery for his research. He did this with one purpose - he really wanted to find the secret of eternal life. Then he disappeared unexpectedly for everyone. Later he was found in his own laboratory in a seizure, and various body parts were scattered everywhere. Naturally, after that, a rumor spread that the soul had not left this place, so the scientist Konrad Dippel still wanders around the roof, knocking bones, hoping to re-enter his laboratory.
The Brothers Grimm and Mary Shelley
In search of inspiration in 1812, the famous brothers Grimm (Jacob and Welhelm) visited the foot of the Odenwald. They also became aware of the terrifying legends of this place. Naturally, they wanted to share their impressions with their translator Mary Jane Clairmont, who translated their stories from German into English. You've probably guessed by now that she was Mary Shelley's stepmother.
Then another legend appears, which says that the writer Mary Shelley was inspired by this story to write a novel about Frankenstein. However, in her diaries this fact was never confirmed. Many argue that she wrote her novel while she was in Byron's villa. On vacation, she idly spent time and discussed with her neighbors the experiments of Darwin and Luigi Galvani. By the way, translated into Russian, Frankenstein is the Stone of Francs.
Halloween at Frankenstein Castle
Today, there is practically nothing left of the former greatness of the castle, but this is not a hindrance for local residents, who annually celebrate here, no less mystical than the place itself, a holiday - Halloween. This is the largest "scary" party in Europe. Tourists at the entrance are greeted by vampires, werewolves, mummies, witches and other evil spirits.
All of them invite you to take a fascinating walk through the dungeons of the castle, visit the tower of horror and, if you're lucky, see the ghost of a scientist. It is simply impossible to refuse such a tempting offer. The entrance to the party of dark forces is paid. Impressive natures are advised to stay as far away as possible.
Fountain of youth
Only the fountain of Youth, which is in the immediate vicinity, contrasts with the Frankenstein castle. They say that everyone who tastes its healing water will restore their youth and attractiveness. But not everything is so simple, there are certain rules. However, this is a real godsend for the ladies. It is not surprising that even older ladies give up everything in order to pass their test on the first night, when the sky is illuminated by the full moon after Walpurgis Night. Those who pass it to the end get what they want.
Secrets of the forest surrounding the castle
Another interesting fact. There are magnetic stones in the forest that surrounds the castle. They allegedly created radio interference at an American military base. It was located here, of course, in the past. Someone believes that it is not the stones that are to blame, but the hill itself, which was endowed with mysterious properties by the struck by lightning. And it happened thousands of years ago. In general, some secrets are covered in darkness.
In the forest, you can also take leisurely walks along asphalt paths and relax on benches, enjoying the mystery of this place. Here you can often meet married couples with children. Time has no power here, and therefore everything here is shrouded in frightening silence. Which, however, very eloquently characterizes the entire surrounding space.
How to get there
You don't have to use the tour desk to get to the castle. Knowing all the legends of this place, you yourself will be able to organize a trip. In addition, admission is free for everyone, without exception. So, to get to the castle by car, take the A5 motorway. If you do not rent a car, then trams that follow route 6, 7 and 8 will help you. You will definitely not miss the stop.
