Gymnast plunges 80m to her death near famous castle in Germany

A star gymnast died six days after she fell nearly 80 metres near the popular Neuschwanstein Castle when trying to take a selfie.

A star gymnast has plunged to her death while apparently taking a selfie at the castle that inspired Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty.

Natalie Stichova, 23, was declared dead six days after she fell nearly 80 metres down Tegelberg Mountain in Bavaria, Germany.

The tragic fall reportedly took place near the picturesque Neuschwanstein Castle as the Czech athlete was trying to capture the perfect Instagram snap on August 15.

Natalie Stichova, 23, appears to have fallen to her death while taking a selfie. Picture: Newsflash

Natalie’s friend told German media she had been standing very close to the edge of the mountain, setting up the shot in front of the castle, when she fell.

The friend, who wished to remain anonymous, said: “She fell from a height of about 262 feet (80 metres).

“We will never find out whether she slipped or whether a piece of the rock edge broke off.”

The young woman was alongside two friends and her boyfriend, David, when tragedy struck.

Police described the route as a “challenging climb”.

Natalie’s club and family shared heartfelt tributes. Picture: Newsflash

Local media reported that Natalie initially survived the harrowing fall with grave injuries and was swiftly airlifted to hospital by helicopter.

Her family took her life support off due to irreversible brain damage last Wednesday, according to reports.

Natalie was a well-known sports star in the Czech Republic and had recently started training junior athletes herself.

She was reportedly visiting Neuschwanstein Castle, in Bavaria State, Germany. Picture: Newsflash

Her club, Sokol Pribram Sports Gymnastics, expressed their condolences in a statement.

“With deep sorrow, we announce that our wonderful friend, gymnast, representative, and coach, Natalie Stichova, has left us forever due to a tragic accident,” it read.

“She lost her fight for life on August 21 at 5.30am.

The 23-year-old was a passionate Czech gymnast. Picture: Newsflash

Natalie lost her fight for life on August 21 at 5.30am. Picture: Newsflash

“Natalie spread smiles throughout her short life, and that is how we will remember her forever.

“We extend our heartfelt condolences to her family and close friends, sending them strength and support.

“To honour Natalie’s memory, you are welcome to light a candle at our gymnasium.”

Natalie’s grieving mother added: “There is no one who didn’t love her. Our Natalie was the sweetest person.”

The news triggered an avalanche of heartfelt messages from online users.

“Sincere condolences to everyone who loved her, fate is not fair. She had a whole life ahead of her. This is so sad,” one person wrote on Facebook:

Another commented: “Condolences to the family and all close friends. It’s a tragedy, it really affected me and my daughter. I wish the family much strength, it’s an irreplaceable loss.”

A third added: “I’m so sorry for your loss. Natalie, rest in peace.”

This article originally appeared on The Sun and was reproduced with permission