BY SARAH GRAHAM
When I arrived in Schwetzingen, Germany, just outside of Heidelberg, it was nothing like I expected: it was blazingly hot, dry, and lacking the beautiful architecture that I had grown used to on my European extravaganza. Upon my arrival, I was told that there was a castle a mile and a half away from my hotel. However, walking in the beating sun did not seem attractive at all. But when I finally arrived at the beautiful pink doors that belonged to the Schwetzingen Castle, I realized my efforts were worth it.
Schwetzingen Castle (Schloss Schwetzingen to the native-speakers) is without a doubt the best-kept secret of any small German town. After paying a small entrance fee, wonderful large pink doors that open to grand gardens of various shrubs, trees, flowers, and fountains greet you. While not quite as confusing as Versailles, these Palace Gardens are still constructed in little swirly patterns. Greenery that is beautifully trimmed go on as far as the eye can see.
As you look and walk around the gardens, you will find that every building on the premises is a lovely light shade of pink. The choice of color seems peculiar since this was the summer palace of various important Palatine Electors. The palace has seen many Electors and their families, and was in use from around thirteen fifty through the eighteenth century. All were allowed to enjoy its beautiful grounds.
There are also stunning little monuments that can be found there, such as the Temple of Apollo. (It is amazing that the statues and buildings you see there are still so intact, when they have been erect for well over half of a century.) There is also a peaceful lake where you can sit and feed the geese and just enjoy the wonderful tranquility of the Palace Gardens. With so many shrubs and trees towering high above you as you walk through the breathtaking palace grounds, you will hardly even notice the German heat.
When I found the Schwetzingen Castle, it felt like I had found a diamond in the rough. Everyone has heard of Versailles, but few people can even say “Schwetzingen!” When I’m traveling, I think the most important thing to do is to explore somewhere off of the beaten path, because that’s where you find the best places. I can’t think of a better example of this motto than my journey to find the Schwetzingen Castle.