Heidelberg, Castle

(2 photos)

The Schloss (Castle) was ransacked by the French in 1622, 1688 and 1693, and badly damaged by a storm in 1764. What remains is an immense ivy-covered ruin, portions are in excellent condition and still used for tourist activities. The Royal Chamber for example, can seat up to 700 people.

The setting for the operetta “The Student Prince,” (Music by Sigmund Romberg) is this same Heidelberg Schloss. One year we noticed an advertisement for its performance on the Schloss grounds, two days hence. We try never to travel with a schedule, but that time our daughter had a plane to catch — well, next time!

And there was a next time. A few years later we visited the Castle grounds at sunset, and were admitted to a dress rehearsal of “The Student Prince.” What a delightful evening. Singers would appear on this balcony and that, flood lights appeared as if by magic, and the orchestra filled the old castle grounds with glorious music. And what a contrast from the last time we saw this operetta, at the High School Auditorium in Palm Springs.
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And yet another view of the Castle.