1106, 2017

Berlin, Germany

World Cities & Harbors
1196

Berlin, Germany, damaged physically and culturally by war for most of the 20th century, has entered the 21st century a thriving capital and one of the most popular travel destinations in Europe. The cultural transformation of Berlin is reflected in this scene’s view of the Bebelplatz, the plaza in front of the Humboldt University. Once used a stage for Nazi book burning, the plaza now hosts events such as the Mercedes-Benz-sponsored Berlin Fashion Week. Other Berlin landmarks visible in this sample video include the Reichstag and government buildings of the German legislature, the Bundestag; the statue of Frederick the Great, a former King of Prussia; and Jonathan Borofsky’s “Molecule Man” sculpture, which has twins in Los

0511, 2012

Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany

Full version of the single song episodes featured here, in our Media Library showcase, are available to watch free on the eScapes’ XUMO Lifestyle Channel # 452 The great Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria is one of Europe’s most popular castles. Thanks to its breathtaking location and architecture, the castle looks like something out of a fairy tale. This was somewhat the intention of Bavarian King Ludwig II, who ordered the construction of the castle as a fantasy retreat from reality. After losing control of the Bavarian army and most of his real power, Ludwig II began planning a series of lavish palaces and castles where he could isolate himself and indulge his dreams of royalty. Neuschwanstein

0810, 2012

Linderhof Palace, Germany

The German state of Bavaria is renowned for its beautiful views and magnificent architecture, and some of its most impressive sites were built under the rule of King Ludwig II, the area’s “fairy tale king.” During his 22-year reign, the king commissioned two palaces and a castle. Linderhof Palace, featured in this video, is the only one to have been completed as planned. Surely eccentric, and even known to some as the “Mad King,” Ludwig went heavily into debt to construct these buildings, which largely pay homage to King Louis XIV of France and the romantic works of composer Richard Wagner. This debt became one of the reasons for the king’s eventual deposition. Ironically, Ludwig’s self-indulgent