King Ludwig 2: The 'Fairy-tale' Monarch & his Castles

King Ludwig the Second (1845-1886) was known as the 'Mad Monarch of Bavaria' but left in his passing a series of fantastic castles that are visited by over 3 million people a year and recognized the world over. This is the unusual story of an ill-fated King and his tragic end, his strange relationship to the composer Richard Wagner and a first-hand visit to his famous creations. I also hoped to illustrate how the lush musical selections of Wagner conveying the beauty of the Bavarian mountains and countryside helped to shape the majestic fantasies of King Ludwig. Hosted by Munich's own Octoberfest Queen, Ms. Brigitte Viez with observations, video and photography by Bruce Blank and Charlene Henning.