A couple of weekends back, we ended up (on quite an impulsive urge to seize the beautiful day) on the shores of Lake Starnberg. Without really knowing it, we were actually close to the Votivkapelle (memorial church) dedicated to the King Ludwig II of Bavaria – the “mad, creative” genius, who commissioned the construction of the fantastic castles of Neuschwanstein, Linderhof, and Herrenchiemsee. King Ludwig II was found drowned in the Lake Starnberg on 13th June, 1886 along with his physician, Dr. von Gudden. The Votivkapelle is located close to where their bodies were found. Some memories from that brief, beautiful afternoon…

This memorial to King Ludwig II of Bavaria was commissioned by the Prince Regent Luitpold in 1896 – on the 10th anniversary of his death. (Apr. 2017)

This memorial to King Ludwig II of Bavaria was commissioned by the Prince Regent Luitpold in 1896 – on the 10th anniversary of his death. (Apr. 2017)

This pillar with the lanterns around it (called the “Totenleuchte” in German) were commissioned by the King’s mother, Queen Marie, in 1887. (Apr. 2017)

A simple cross marks the spot where the bodies of the King and his physician were found on 13th June, 1886. (Apr. 2017)

Spending a few quiet minutes on the shores of the lake … being entranced by the gentle ebb and flow of the waters. (Apr. 2017)

A view of the Votivkapelle through the surrounding trees in the evening light of the sun (Apr. 2017)