Castles, which seem to be the "regulars" described by Western romantics, embody the ancient spirit of chivalry. However, once we put aside the idea of romanticism, we can see the important role that castles have played in world history, especially in European history. Let's take a look at the five oldest castles in the world.

1. Cochem Castle, Germany

Reichsburg Cochem, also known as Cochem Castle, is one of the oldest surviving castles in the world. The Palatinate Count Ezzo built the castle about 1,000 years ago. It was rebuilt in 1868 by Louis Fréderic Jacques Ravené in the Gothic Revival style.

This style reflects the romantic ideals that prevailed in 19th century Germany. The trend in Germany at the time was for nobles and other wealthy people to buy castle ruins to renovate as family summer homes. The Ravené family followed suit and made the castle their family's summer retreat.

The Ravené family meticulously purchased Renaissance and Baroque furniture that still exists in the castle today.

2. Warwick Castle, England

William the Conqueror built the first castle on the present site of Warwick Castle in 1068. A century later, the Earl of Warwick gradually rebuilt the castle into a stone structure, and by the end of the 1300s the original building had been expanded to include a dungeon and two towers.

In 1978, the Greville family, who owned the castle for more than 300 years, sold it to the Tussauds Group, before the castle and its grounds were restored to their former glory.

This medieval castle is quite possibly one of England's most popular tourist attractions and offers visitors a variety of accommodation options, including knights' country cottages, medieval luxury tents and romantic tower suites within the castle.

3. Windsor Castle, UK

Windsor Castle has been used by England's monarchs since the reign of King Henry I, making it the longest-serving castle in Europe. Most of the oldest castles in the world have become tourist attractions, but Windsor Castle remains the royal residence.

In fact, it's Queen Elizabeth II's favorite weekend getaway. Since its construction in the 11th century, 39 monarchs have used it as their residence. The castle remains one of the Queen's preferred residences, with parts of the castle still open to the public on certain days of the year.

4. Kyrilla Castle, Ireland

Kiliria Castle in Northern Ireland is one of the oldest and most iconic castles in the world, Kiliria Castle, can be said to be the landmark of Kiliria Village. King James I awarded the land to James Hamilton, who later became the first Viscount Cranberney, who set about building the striking walls and castle of Kyrilla. Its history dates back to 1180.

Today, descendants of James Hamilton live with his family at Kylieria Castle. They have opened two towers to provide self-catering accommodation for guests. In addition, the castle hosts live concerts and provides venues for filming shows or movies, etc.

5. Alcazar, Segovia, Spain

The Alcázar of Segovia was built on the remains of a Roman fort and served as an Arab fort. It wasn't until King Alfonso VI reclaimed the area around 1120 when the first written record of the castle was reclaimed. The castle became the main residence during the reigns of King Alfonso VIII and his wife Eleanor of England, who started building the castle to this day.

It's not hard to see from the outside why many people around the world truly believe that the castle's design inspired the creative direction of Walt Disney's castle. Today, the Alcázar is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is open year-round to visitors to its archives and museums.