Hearst Castle 750 Hearst Castle Rd, San Simeon, CA 93452 ☎ (800) 444-4445 Last Updated: 10/11/2023 | |
Hearst Castle, officially known as Hearst San Simeon State Historical Monument, is a world-renowned historic estate located on a hill overlooking the Pacific Ocean, about midway between Los Angeles and San Francisco, in San Simeon, California, on the central coast. It is famous for its opulent architecture, art, and the estate's rich history. | |
- History: The castle was built by newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst and architect Julia Morgan. Construction began in 1919 and continued for nearly three decades. - Architecture: Hearst Castle features a blend of architectural styles, including Mediterranean Revival, Spanish Colonial, and Neoclassical elements. The estate is comprised of several buildings, including the opulent main house, known as Casa Grande, guesthouses, and a lavish indoor and outdoor pool area. - Art and Antiques: The castle is home to a vast collection of art, antiquities, and decorative objects that Hearst collected from around the world. It includes Renaissance and Baroque art, tapestries, and sculptures. - Tours: Hearst Castle offers guided tours that allow visitors to explore the various rooms, gardens, and pools. Each tour provides insight into the history of the estate and its notable guests. - Gardens: The estate features beautifully landscaped gardens, including the Neptune Pool, Roman Pool, and terraced gardens that offer stunning views of the surrounding area. - Conservation: Hearst Castle is now part of the California State Parks system and is preserved as a historical and cultural landmark. - Visitor Center: Before embarking on a tour, visitors typically start at the Hearst Castle Visitor Center, where they can purchase tickets and learn more about the estate's history. - Accessibility: The castle and visitor center are wheelchair-accessible, and there are options for visitors with disabilities to participate in the tours. - Reservations: Due to the popularity of Hearst Castle, it's recommended to make tour reservations in advance to secure your preferred tour time. Hearst Castle is an iconic California landmark and a testament to the opulence and vision of William Randolph Hearst and architect Julia Morgan. The estate's breathtaking architecture, extensive art collection, and stunning coastal setting make it a must-visit attraction for those interested in history, architecture, and the glamour of a bygone era. |
San Simeon Place » City San Simeon is a village and Census-designated place[2] on the Pacific coast of San Luis Obispo County, California. A key feature of the area is Hearst Castle, a hilltop mansion built for William Randolph Hearst in the early 20th century that is now a tourist attraction. The area is also home to a large northern elephant seal rookery. It had a population of 445 in 2020. 36 views 💖 1California |