Eight Remarkable American Castles Worth Visiting This Summertime
From coast to coast, the United States is home to a captivating array of castles, each with its unique history and charm. Here, we take a tour of some of the most intriguing castles that dot the American landscape.
Hearst Castle: A Magnificent Masterpiece in California
Built between 1919 and 1947, Hearst Castle in San Simeon, California, is a testament to the grandeur of newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst. Architect Julia Morgan, known for her exquisite design sensibilities, led the construction of this grand abode, featuring 165 rooms, a large outdoor pool, and various terraces.
OHEKA Castle: A Grand Residence in New York
One of the largest private residences ever built in America, OHEKA Castle in Huntington, New York, boasts 127 rooms. Constructed between 1917 and 1919, the castle cost approximately $11 million dollars ($110 million today) to erect. After a period of abandonment and disrepair, OHEKA Castle was transformed into a ritzy hotel.
Hammond Castle: A Marvel of Invention in Massachusetts
John Hays Hammond, one of the greatest inventors of the early 1900s, built Hammond Castle in Gloucester, Massachusetts, as a wedding present for his wife and to house his collection of artifacts. The castle, completed in 1926, includes a great hall, two kitchens, a war room, an inventions exhibit room, servants' quarters, secret passageways, and more.
Castello di Amorosa: A Medieval Escape in Napa Valley
Transporting oenophiles in California's Napa Valley to a medieval Italian setting, Castello di Amorosa was constructed starting in 1994 by Dario Sattui. The castle features a moat, drawbridge, and a replica torture chamber.
Bannerman Castle: A Fortress of Military History
Located on a small island off the Hudson River's eastern shore, Bannerman Castle was built by Francis Bannerman to store military surplus items. Built without professional help, the castle was left vacant for decades after everyone eventually left and was later preserved by the Bannerman Castle Trust.
Lyndhurst: A Gothic Revival Masterpiece in New York
Designed in 1838 by Alexander Jackson Davis, Lyndhurst is a Gothic Revival mansion located in Tarrytown, New York. The mansion sits on a 67-acre plot of land with gardensque style landscaping work by Ferdinand Mangold.
Fonthill Castle: A Concrete Marvel in Pennsylvania
Fonthill Castle, constructed between 1908 and 1912, is significant as it provides an early example of poured reinforced concrete. The castle was owned by archaeologist Henry Chapman Mercer.
Belvedere Castle: A Central Park Landmark in New York
Designed by Calvert Vanderbilt and Frederick Law Olmsted, co-designers of New York's Central Park, Belvedere Castle was built in 1869. The castle offers panoramic views of Central Park in New York.
Each of these castles offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing the ingenuity, creativity, and wealth of their respective builders. Whether it's the grandeur of Hearst Castle, the inventive spirit of Hammond Castle, or the medieval charm of Castello di Amorosa, these castles are sure to leave a lasting impression.
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