Schloss Weikersheim is one of the finest and best-preserved aristocratic residences in southern Germany. The site began as a medieval fortress in the 12th century; what you see today was largely created when Count Wolfgang of Hohenlohe arrived in 1587 and transformed the old stronghold into a Renaissance palace, working with his wife Magdalena of Nassau-Dillenburg (sister of William the Silent). The work was completed by 1605, and the palace has survived largely intact ever since.
The Rittersaal (knights' hall) is the centrepiece: a vast room with a painted ceiling depicting hunting scenes, exotic animals, and mythological figures in rich detail, supported by carved wooden beams and surrounded by trophy antlers and period weaponry. Beyond the hall, the baroque palace garden stretches down to the Tauber — formal parterres flanked by the famous gallery of 64 stone dwarf and courtier figures, each one a distinct character. A Hercules fountain punctuates the main axis. The orangery at the garden's end houses changing exhibitions. State rooms with original furnishings complete the tour. In summer the Jeunesses Musicales academy fills the castle with young musicians, and concerts are held in the grounds.