Chapter 32: Hohenzollern Castle
On April 13, 1866, Hohenzollern Castle was officially completed. Prince Constantine organized a celebration and invited prominent members of the Hohenzollern family to commemorate this significant event.
Hohenzollern Castle held great importance to the Hohenzollern family, as it was not only their ancestral home but also a symbol of their heritage. Its construction began in the 11th century when Burchard I, the family's ancestor, started building it. However, the original castle was later destroyed.
Over the centuries, the Hohenzollerns rebuilt and fortified the castle, turning it into a refuge during times of war. Due to its strategic location, the castle played a pivotal role in various conflicts between the French and Austrians.
In 1844, King William IV of Prussia expressed his fond memories of the castle in a letter, particularly enjoying the sunsets from its vantage point. Rebuilding the castle became one of his youthful dreams.
The current Hohenzollern Castle was reconstructed in 1850 through joint efforts from Prussia and Hechingen. It was historically completed in 1867. However, thanks to Ernst's industrial efforts and increased wealth for the Hechingen royal family, the construction was expedited by a year.
Ernst also increased the Hechingen royal family's ownership share in Hohenzollern Castle to 50% by repurchasing part of the property rights from King William I of Prussia.
The completion ceremony was attended by distinguished figures from the Hohenzollern family, including Prince Constantine and Ernst from the Hechingen family. Crown Prince Frederick represented the Prussian royal family, and members of the Sigmaringen line were also present.
Despite the triumph, many members of the Hohenzollern family had uncertain futures. Leopold, for instance, missed the opportunity to become the King of Spain due to French interference. Ernst, on the other hand, had the advantage of developing East Africa. He vowed to help his relatives if East Africa thrived.
Among Ernst's important relatives were the Prussian royal family, the Sigmaringen line, and his deceased mother's family, the Beauharnay dukes. The Hohenzollern family was Ernst's primary support system.
During the reception, Ernst chatted with his cousin Leopold, who expressed concern about Karl's situation in Romania. Despite having family support, Romania faced instability. Ernst assured Leopold that Karl's military experience would deter any rash actions by Romanian opponents.
Ernst also mentioned his East African colony, where he was primarily involved in agricultural activities. Crown Prince Frederick joined the conversation, acknowledging the potential of colonies for maritime hegemony. He stressed the importance of German unification and the duty of the Hohenzollern family in achieving it.
Frederick's words revealed a determination to confront the Austrian Empire, indicating a strategic agreement within Prussia to deal with Austria with full force.
(end of Chapter 32)