Hearst Castle

Hearst Castle was the creation of two individuals, William Randolph Hearst and San Franciscoarchitect Julia Morgan. Construction began in 1919 and continued for nearly 30 years. The Hearst Corporation donated the estate to the State of California in December 1957. The main house itself, "La Casa Grande," is a grand setting for Hearst's collection of European antiques and art pieces. Hearst Castle is a blend of historic architectural styles that Hearst admired in his travels around Europe. For example, the main house is modeled after a 16th century Spanish cathedral, while the outdoor pool features an ancient Roman temple. Hearst Castle was furnished with art, antiques, and even whole ceilings that he acquired en masse from Europe and Egypt. Guests of Hearst Castle included President Calvin Coolidge, Winston Churchill, Joan Crawford, George Bernard Shaw, Charles Lindbergh, Charlie Chaplin, the Marx Brothers, Clark Gable, Myrna Loy, Bing Crosby, Irving Thalberg, Norma Shearer, and Cary Grant. There are five separate tours that can be booked online or by calling (800) 444-4445. Hearst Castle is located 90 miles south of Carmel at the southern portion of the Big Sur coastline near the towns of San Simeon and Cambria.