*****= An all-time favorite
****
= Outstanding
***
= Above average
**
= Enjoyable
*
= Good, with reservations
***Neuschwanstein
by Gottfried Knapp
photography by Achim Bunz
translated by Ilze Klavina
Reviewed April 20,
2004.
Edition Axel Menges, Stuttgart, 1999. 60 pages.
Available at Sembach Library (914.3 KNA).
This is a souvenir book, but it’s a nice one. Text is presented
in both German and English, with the English a bit stiff since it’s a translation,
but still informative. It tells the story of King Ludwig and the story
of the fairy-tale castle he built, with an emphasis on the architectural
details. I hadn’t realized that Neuschwanstein was a feat of engineering
in its time, since the location was so inaccessible. Besides a breathtaking
view in every direction, it also boasted modern service facilities and hot
and cold running water.
Of course, the most wonderful part of this book is the selection of large,
stunning photographs of the magic castle of Neuschwanstein, both inside and
out. Truly Neuschwanstein is the most photogenic castle in the world,
and Achim Bunz does it justice. My only complaint is that I would
like even more photographs, but the many that are included are all magnificent.
This is a wonderful book to read and look through before or after a trip
to Neuschwanstein. Once you’ve been, it will also make a memorable
souvenir keepsake.
Book Reviews by Sondra
Eklund