This spectacular royal palace, begun in 1869 for Louis II of Bavaria, dominates the Pöllat River gorge from its perch in the Bavarian Alps of Germany. Three separate architects worked on the project: Riedel, Dollmann, and Hofmann; it's theatricality was dreamed up by a stage designer, Christoph Jank. Its astonishingly colorful and elaborate interior was further inspired by the operas of Louis’ favorite composer, Richard Wagner. Sadly, the creation of this fairy tale castle was marred by tragedy and controversy. Louis was declared insane in 1886. Shortly thereafter, Mad King Ludwig and a companion were found drowned in a nearby lake. He never had a chance to live in his castle, as it was still unfinished at the time of his mysterious death. Since then, Schloss Neuschwanstein has come to symbolize Bavaria and epitomize 19th century romanticism, with its sense of melodrama and melancholic beauty. It is an unforgettable, otherworldly sight. This ornament is hand-blown and hand-painted in Germany. Gift boxed.