Neuschwanstein Castle, also known as Schloss Neuschwanstein, is an elaborate castle located near Füssen, Germany. It was commissioned by King Ludwig II of Bavaria in 1868 and was intended to be a recreation of the old Hohenschwangau Castle in the style of medieval German knights' castles. The castle was influenced by the romantic mountain scenery and the summer castle of Schwanstein, which was rebuilt by Ludwig's father. Neuschwanstein Castle was designed to be a grand and ideal medieval castle, incorporating modern technical features. Construction began in 1868, and the castle's foundation stone was laid in 1869. However, the construction took longer than expected due to Ludwig II's detailed ideas that had to be implemented by various designers and artisans. The castle remained unfinished, and Ludwig II only lived there for a short period before his death.