Castles Are The Forgotten Manmade Wonders Of The World

The recently chosen New Seven Wonders of the World has had much criticism. And, although it was a good idea to exchange the list of Seven Wonders of the Ancient World with a new list, there are indeed some strange results from the voting procedure. The voting has caused for instance the listing of Christ the Redeemer in Brasil, instead of the Amazing Angkor Wat temples. But what is even more striking, is the lack of medieval castles in the winning list of manmade wonders of the world, and even in the lists of finalists.

Castles, citadels, and medieval towns are the remains of the Dark Ages, as the Middle Ages are often referred to. Many consider this period as an era of fighting and destruction. But looking at the remains of this period, we need to conclude that it was also a period in which magnificent structures were built.

An adventure travel tour through Europe should include at least a few Medieval towns, Citadels, and Castles. These can be found all over Europe, and for instance Egeskov in Denmark, or De Haar in The Netherlands are beautifully reconstructed examples of great Castles. And what about the United Kingdom and Ireland? These are countries famous about their Medieval Heritage. Located in the highlands of Scotland and the low plains of Ireland are many castles, some in decay, but many still in their full glory.

But it is in Eastern Europe where the most beautiful gems can be found. Here, western commercialism has not fully struck yet, and the medieval structures can be found in more natural conditions. Visit Cesky Krumlov in the Czech Republic for a small relaxing medieval town in between a meandering river. Go to Sighisoara or Brasov in Romanian Transylvania for the history of Dracula. And try Veliko Tarnovo for a magnificent fortification on top of the rocks.

Are you more of a city dweller? Try Prague, Budapest, or one of the medieval capitals of the Baltic states: Vilnius, Riga, or Tallinn. These combine a piece of Medieval history with modern city life including bars, restaurants and discotheques.

Patrick van der Meer is the creator of Adventure Travel Tales and Tips. Visit his website for more information about the castles around Brasov in Romania, medieval towns like Vilnius in Lithuania, and more about Adventure Travel in Europe or other parts of the world.