Situated at the foot of Neuschwanstein Palace and Hohenschwangau Castle is the former Grand Hotel “Alpenrose”.
But since 2011 this beautiful historic hotel has taken on a noble role, telling the story of the former Wittelsbach royal family in the Museum of the Bavarian Kings.

The Wittelsbach family is one of the oldest noble German families, and one of the most important in Europe. It gave rise to several important names in the political scene in the Bavarian region, including dukes, electors, counts, emperors, and kings. They are prominently featured in the Museum of the Bavarian Kings.

Although many do not know it, there was the Kingdom of Bavaria, lasting only 112 years, where in 1806 Max I Joseph was the first king, followed by five other Wittelsbachers, until the end of this monarchy and incorporation of Bavaria into the German Empire in 1871. The Museum of the Bavarian Kings provides extensive information about this period.

The family influence crossed the borders of German territory when in various situations its members served as sovereigns in other territories, such as Greece, Denmark, and Sweden.

The museum tells the story and the highlights of the trajectory of this powerful family, but its focus is on two of its most illustrious members, Maximilian II and his son Ludwig II, respectively the builders of the castle of Hohenschwangau and the palace of Neuschwanstein. Visitors to the Museum of the Bavarian Kings can learn about their contributions.

In the museum, you can find the family tree, jewelry, clothing, paintings, and the magnificent view of the region, which Maximilian II and Ludwig II were passionate about.

Thanks to their tradition and skill in using marriage to gain power and influence, the Wittelsbach family exerted great influence and power in Europe, and they knew how to prevail and survive even during difficult periods!