Craigdarroch Castle
1050 Joan Crescent, Victoria, BC V8S 3L5
Craigdarroch Castle is a historic landmark located in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. It is a grand, Victorian-era mansion that was built in the late 19th century by Robert Dunsmuir, a wealthy coal baron and industrialist. The castle was completed in 1890 and served as the family’s residence until 1908, when Robert’s wife, Joan Dunsmuir, passed away.
The castle is a stunning example of Victorian-era architecture, with its elaborate decorative details, ornate stained glass windows, and intricate wood carvings. It is a four-story building made of local sandstone, with a slate roof and towers at each corner. The interior of the castle is just as impressive as the exterior, with lavish furnishings, intricate plasterwork, and a grand staircase that leads to the upper floors.
The castle was built to be a showpiece for the Dunsmuir family, and it served as a symbol of their wealth and status in the community. It was designed by the architect Edward Lippincott Tilton, who was known for his grand, opulent buildings. The castle was built with the latest technologies and innovations of the time, including electric lighting, central heating, and an elevator.
In addition to the main building, the castle grounds also include several outbuildings, including a carriage house, a stable, and a greenhouse. There are also beautiful gardens on the grounds, which were originally used to supply the family with fresh produce.
After the death of Joan Dunsmuir, the castle was sold to the City of Victoria, and it was used for a variety of purposes, including as a military hospital during World War I, a convalescent home, and a college campus. In 1979, it was designated as a National Historic Site of Canada.
Today, Craigdarroch Castle is open to the public and is a popular tourist attraction in Victoria. Visitors can take guided tours of the castle and learn about the history of the Dunsmuir family and the Victorian era. The castle is also available for events and rentals, such as weddings and corporate events.
In summary, Craigdarroch Castle is a beautiful and historic landmark located in Victoria, British Columbia. It is a grand, Victorian-era mansion that was built by a wealthy coal baron and industrialist in the late 19th century. The castle is a stunning example of Victorian-era architecture and is filled with lavish furnishings and intricate decorative details. It is open to the public and is a popular tourist attraction in Victoria.
Getting to Mind Body Spine
From Craigdarroch Castle to Mind Body Spine
Driving Directions to Your Next Victoria BC Point of Interest: The Legislative Assembly of British Columbia
Head east toward Joan Crescent. Turn right onto Joan Crescent. Turn right onto Rockland Ave. Turn left onto Cook St. Turn right onto Southgate St. Turn right onto Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 N (signs for Trans Canada Highway). Turn left onto Belleville St.
From Craigdarroch Castle to the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia
Head to the next Victoria BC Point of Interest: The Legislative Assembly of British Columbia
