One of the main reasons I like Germany is the German medieval towns and castles. It's really amazing they're so well kept. If you have viewed my album "Muenster and Frankfurt" and read the introduction, you may know that when I went to the city of Muenster in 2008, I came across a very nice and kind-hearted local lady Amelie. Ever since that journey we have become good friends, and this summer was already the 4th time we met. The short trip we took together was also the most memorable one. Her gentle and patient husband Bernard drove us for a 2-day tour of Muensterland (Münsterland), a region of moated castles. Many thanks to these wonderful friends, I got to see 7 beautiful castles, including a very privately owned castle Schloss Darfeld (46 - 51), and Schloss Steinfurt (52 & 53) which was closed for renovation.

The weather forecast had said it would be rainy both days, and unfortunately it was accurate. But, fortunately, there were miracles too. A few times there was a thunderstorm when we were in the car, but when we reached another destination the rain just stopped and the sun suddenly came out, shining brightly on the magnificent architecture.

To Bernard, this region where he grew up, is a land of pride and glory. And to me, a castles lover, Münsterland is a wonderland, fairyland, and dreamland.

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