Castles have acted as military fortresses and home to royal families for centuries. Some meet the stereotypical gothic image of a castle, but others are more unusual because of the period or country in which they were built.

This list of jaw-dropping castles from around the globe includes the largest ancient castle in the world and Dracula’s humble abode.

Prague Castle | Czech Republic

Built in the 9th century and spanning 750,000 square feet, Prague Castle is the largest ancient castle in history, according to the “Guinness Book of World Records.”

Bran Castle | Romania

This medieval fortress inspired Dracula’s Castle, as depicted in TV and movies. However, there’s no evidence that Bram Stoker knew anything of the castle when he wrote the book.

Edinburgh Castle | Scotland, United Kingdom

Edinburgh Castle has been placed under siege at least 26 times, leading some researchers to claim that it is the most attacked place in world history.

Predjama Castle | Slovenia

This Renaissance castle dates back to the 13th century and was home to the knight Erasmus of Lueg, a notorious robber baron.

Photography: Newscom

Pena Palace | Portugal

This castle, which takes a colorful turn away from the standard architecture of the time, was built during the Middle Ages. Today, it’s used occasionally by the president of Portugal for state business.

Neuschwanstein Castle | Germany

One of the most recognized castles in the world, Neuschwanstein is the ultimate symbol for the Romanticism era. Featured in the 1968 movie “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” and the inspiration for Disneyland’s Sleeping Beauty Castle, it’s well worth visiting.

Photography: Germany National Tourism Board

Ksar of Aït-Ben-Haddou | Morocco

These mudbrick defensive walls sit on the southern slopes of the High Atlas on the edge of the Sahara. The unusual-looking structure has appeared in “Game of Thrones,” “Gladiator” and “We Would be King.”

Eltz Castle | Germany

This stunning medieval castle is nestled in the hills above the Moselle River and is home to the Eltz family. It doesn’t have any famous movie appearances, but it’s still a great place to visit.