The Wartburg is the iconic German castle, known worldwide for its association with Martin Luther. Even though it was constructed in the 11th century, today's appearance largely dates to the 19th century and shows this period's imagination of what a medieval castle might have looked like. Historically, it is important first and foremost for Luther's stay in 1521/22, when he hid from the Pope and the Emperor and translated the Bible into German, thereby giving rise to the modern German language. Also, St. Elizabeth of Thuringia lived there in the 12th century, and in 1817 and 1848, the so-called Wartburg Festivals took place there, which led to the movement to create a democratic and united Germany. For today's visitors, there is a bus line leaving right from the train station in Eisenach, which, however, does not reach the entrance. A rather steep walk (or donkey ride) is also required. Inside, you can see everything you would imagine a medieval German castle to be, but of course, not everything is really original. The guided tours are quite interesting and take you to the highlight, the room where Luther pored over his Bible translation and allegedly threw an inkwell at the devil who dared to distract him. I visited on Reformation Day (not intentionally), and the castle was very crowded, but still, it was a nice experience, not least for the great views over the surrounding hills and forests coloured by a crisp Indian Summer day.