Europe is famous for being home to some of the world's most majestic castles, fromtoto Romania's Peles Castle.

Built centuries ago to protect their inhabitants against invading armies or as impressive feats of engineering, these castles are some of the most beautiful sights found in the 28 countires that make up the European Union.

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In fact, . For example, playright William Shakespeare chose Denmark's Kronborg Castle to be the setting of his play 'Hamlet." while Walt Disney is said to have drawn inspiration from in his animated fairy tale film. Castle in Germany, which was commissioned by the reclusive King Kudwig II, is also rumored to be the inspiration behind. Meanwhile, the were featured in several films, including the 1996 fantasy adventure film, "Dragonheart."

Many of Europe's castles were built to withstand invading armies, which is why thewas built to take advantage of the landscape's natural defenses. Perched on a 400-foot-tall cliff, this . Others, such as Poland's Malbork Castle, were built along rivers for added protection.

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Be sure not to miss in the Czech Republic on your trip around Europe.Founded in the ninth century byPrince Bořivoj and expanded upon over several centuries, this is the, with a total surface area of almost 70,000 square meters, an areaaccording to Lonely Planet.

Click on the slideshow above to see some some more of the best castles in every country of the European Union.

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