Castle Illumination

Last weekend I was also partying near Neckar River in Heidelberg. Of course you can always party - however, pretending there is a reason to celebrate is even more fun.
So this time the reason was Heidelbergs Castle Illumination. Its like three or four times a year in summer (tourist) season. I ve been living almost 6 years in Heidelberg and shame on me have never seen it before... So now, I came back from Zürich to party and see the spectacular lightening and fireworks... It was really cooooool!


Mark Twain visited the castle illumination in the year 1878.

As reminders of big events in Heidelberg history, the fireworks and castle illuminations have a most interesting background: They originated in 1613 when newly-wed Prince Elector Frederic V welcomed his young wife to Heidelberg. The English princess Elizabeth Stuart was received with due respect and a splendid event. The castle was illuminated by bright colors, and star balls were to be seen high above the Neckar River. Today, the star balls highlight the Heidelberg summer.

If the French General Melac and his troops had not destroyed and burned down Heidelberg Castle over 300 years ago, perhaps it would never have achieved the fame it enjoys today as the most beautiful and romantic castle in the world. In memory of this fateful event, the castle illuminations are now held several times each year. The castle walls turns blood red in the glow of torches and a huge, brilliant fireworks display is launched from the Old Bridge, bathing the entrance to the Neckar valley in a stunning panoply of light and colour. It's a spectacular event that attracts thousands of visitors each year from far and wide.

Sunday was a nice little breakfasty brunch at Liz with her family and friends and we had the blast playing sharades...