Perched high above the California coast, Hearst Castle is an architectural marvel that blends the grandeur of European palaces with the natural beauty of the Central Coast. Built between 1919 and 1947 by newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst and architect Julia Morgan, this sprawling estate—officially known as "La Cuesta Encantada" or "The Enchanted Hill"—is one of California’s most iconic landmarks.
The castle’s 165 rooms and 127 acres of terraced gardens, fountains, and pools reflect a mix of Mediterranean Revival and Spanish Colonial styles. The Neptune Pool, framed by Greek and Roman-style statues and columns, is a jaw-dropping centerpiece, while the opulent indoor Roman Pool dazzles with its shimmering gold tiles and mosaic artistry.
Inside the main building, the Casa Grande, Hearst Castle boasts a treasure trove of European antiques, tapestries, and art collected by Hearst over decades. The Gothic-style ceilings, intricate wood paneling, and Renaissance paintings transport visitors to another era. Perhaps the most famous room, the Assembly Room, features a towering fireplace and floor-to-ceiling windows that offer sweeping views of the surrounding countryside.
A National Historic Landmark, Hearst Castle today operates as a museum, offering guided tours that reveal not only the opulence of the estate but also the story of Hearst’s vision and Julia Morgan’s architectural genius. For visitors, Hearst Castle is a time capsule of early 20th-century luxury, and a glimpse into the life of one of America's most powerful media moguls.
