LINDERHOF PALACE
Linderhof Palace was the smallest of three palaces built by King Ludwig II, but the only one that was completed during his lifetime and that he lived in from 1876. He initially inherited a hunting lodge from his father on the land that Linderhof Palace resides, but moved it 300 meters west to build what we now see preserved today.
Ludwig deeply admired the French King Louis XIV, and drew a ton of inspiration from him when designing Linderhof Palace. You can see this in King Ludwig’s smaller version of a hall of mirrors, and – taking cues from the sun king himself – sprinkled the symbol of the sun everywhere in his rooms. I guess imitation is the highest form of flattery! While the suns might give the impression that King Ludwig was a morning person, he actually slept during the day and was awake at night.
His sleeping habits as well as other routines were quite interesting. He didn’t love people, and tried to avoid them as much as possible. He had many empty audience rooms, as he did not host anyone at Linderhof. To eat without seeing anyone, a table on the second floor was lowered through the ceiling of the first floor. His employees then loaded the table up with food and raised the table back up through a trap door in the first-floor ceiling so that the table would make its appearance again on the second floor where Ludwig would then eat alone.
You will only be able to see this table along with the rest of the interior by booking a 25-minute guided tour of the Palace! You are not permitted to take photos inside, but keep an eye out for vases (as he loved to collect them) and peacocks and swans, his favorite animals. You will see many fireplaces, because although the palace had a modern heating system, Ludwig actually just liked the look of fireplaces! Lastly, you will be able to see how important symmetry was to him. For example, there are complementary music rooms on either side of the palace.
Before your tour, I would recommend walking around the grounds, as there will be fewer people. Then take the first tour available in your language (English or German). As always, I would highly recommend purchasing tickets in advance online. Then grab a small bite to eat at Ludwig’s Bistro!
