From modest hunting lodge to sprawling, three-winged palace. Few European regents were able to realise their absolutist dreams in as literal and grandiose a way as the rulers of Ludwigsburg.

This magnificent palace and hunting lodge in Stuttgart was built under Carl Eugen of Württemberg from 1763. It is one of the outstanding architectural ensembles of the 18th century. In the annexe buildings are the state reception rooms, the white hall and the music and assembly room in the late-rococo style.

The prince bishops' New Palace stands on cathedral square in Bamberg in Upper Franconia. Its notable features include the magnificent electoral apartments, the picture gallery with old German and baroque masterpieces, and the imperial hall with 16 larger-than-life emperor portraits.

The palace in Bad Arolsen in north Hessen was built between 1713 and 1728 under Imperial Prince Friedrich Anton Ulrich of Waldeck. The palace has a fabulous art collection including masterpieces by the Tischbeins, Aldegrever, Meytens and Querfurt.