The courtyard inside Hohenzollern castle.

The Hohenzollern dynasty included two lineages, Franconian and Swabian. They were a powerful family and took control of Prussia in the early 18th century. This castle is actually a more of a monument and still owned privately by the families. The original fortress that was erected in the 11th century was destroyed in 1423 (during the Peasant's War). Nobody has actually ever "lived" in this castle, but they do hold concerts in the "Count's Hall", and the Prince (a co-owner) does have an apartment where he stays occasionally in the summer.

The castle is about 25 km south-east of Tuebingen and is built on the rolling Swabian Alb. The weather on Sunday was snowy and blustery! We have had temperatures in the 30s and snow almost everyday although there hasn't been much of an accumulation. I know all of you Iowans are rolling your eyes while I complain about the cold.

At one time the castle was built and re-built as a military fortress. We took the tour which was very informative (but no photos could be taken), and they had quite an impressive treasury in the old kitchen, with crowns, diamond-encrusted snuff boxes, swords, and armor.

I've got my hands full right now mom, can't smile at the camera...there are more eggs out there that I must find...