Edinburgh Castle, a medieval stronghold, protected Scottish rulers and later served as a military garrison. Its history includes a stake with suspected witches and the Stone of Destiny.
Neuschwanstein Castle, a fairy-tale palace, was built by King Ludwig II. It features a royal room, a bedroom, and an ornate oak bed.
Windsor Castle, Europe's longest-occupied palace, has hosted 29 British monarchs and queens. Charles II updated interiors in 1600s, featuring Waterloo Chamber and State Apartments with Royal Collection art.
The Forbidden City, a 180-acre walled enclave, attracts thousands of visitors daily for its traditional Chinese architecture, golden pagodas, and the Palace Museum.
Shuri Castle, Ryukyu's kings' seat for 400 years, was destroyed in 1945 and rehabilitated in 1990s. Rebuilding efforts continue, currently restricted to tourists.
Prague Castle, the world's largest ancient castle, houses the Czech president and guards the Bohemian Crown Jewels, including the St. Wenceslas Crown, which is made of pure gold and adorned with pearls and stones.
The Louvre, the world's largest museum, houses treasure like the Mona Lisa and Winged Victory of Samothrace and has hosted French kings and emperors since the 12th century.