Most People Don’t Know These 10 Castles Are Hiding Right Here In Alabama
It’s no secret Ireland, France and Italy have some of the most amazing castles ever to exist, but what if I told you that you can visit some castles in Alabama? They may not be as large as those in England but they’re still amazing pieces of architecture, and some even have great history. Let’s have a look at 10 castles you can find right here in the great state of Alabama.
1. The Sterling Castle (Shelby, AL) - Victor and Misty Binkerd built Sterling Castle as a wedding venue because they love witnessing the love between two people and want to do all they can to make sure their wedding dreams come true. The Sterling Castle is the perfect place to begin living a life of happily ever after.
2. Cook Castle (Fort Payne, AL) - Cook Castle, formerly known as Excalibur, is a stone castle that looks like it should've existed during medieval times. Built in 1984 by Jeff Cook (member of the country group Alabama), Cook Castle is a 15,000 square foot home that's now open to the public for special events. You can even arrange to stay overnight in this castle if you wish to do so.
3. Hassinger Castle (Birmingham, AL) - Built in 1929 by William and Virginia Hassinger, Hassinger Castle is located in Redmont Park and is privately owned. It has also been totally restored. I bet the interior is stunning!
4. Castle San Miguel (Hanceville, AL) - Inside this medieval-inspired castle you'll discover 40 foot tall turrets, full-size suits of armor, an Italian wood carving of Michael the Archangel, marble floors, and so many other wonderful things. Be sure to check this castle out if you're ever in the area. They even have a gift shop. Yes, a gift shop! Now you must go!
5. The Weaver House (Selma, AL) - Known as "The Castle", the Weaver House was built in 1868 by William Weaver, a prominent landowner during the time. Weaver was also the son of one of Selma's founders. Supposedly strange things happen here from time to time, such as music playing and screeching voices. If you're interested in paranormal experiences, this may be an interesting place to check out.
6. Wesleyan Hall (Florence, AL) - Located only a few miles from where I live, Wesleyan Hall is part of the University of North Alabama (UNA) campus. Like the Weaver House, Wesleyan Hall is also rumored to be haunted. Supposedly the ghost of a Civil War general's son haunts the building during the night hours.
7. Mosher Castle (Fairhope, AL) - Built by artist Dean Mosher, this very unique home belongs to Dean and his wife Pagan. The Mosher Castle has been featured on HGTV and every part of this home is designed by Dean down to the very last detail. It truly is a fairytale castle. Keep in mind this home is a private residence. The Moshers will allow you to view and photograph the exterior of their home, but you must schedule a tour in order to see the inside. However, you can rent a suite for an overnight adventure in another castle on the grounds. Talk about a unique getaway experience.
8. Smith Lake Castle (Cullman, AL) - This custom built four-story home is located in northern Alabama. Not only does this home have 5,500 square feet of living space, it's also situated on 18 acres. And if that isn't enough, it has an 8,000 square foot, air conditioned toy garage - perfect for multiple cars or even an RV. Smith Lake Castle is currently for sale and comes fully furnished. Yes, you read that right. Fully furnished! The price of this gorgeous residence is somewhat of a mystery. In order to get the price, you must first be a qualified buyer.
9. Ice Cream Castle (Forestdale, AL) - Despite fires and tornadoes, the Ice Cream Castle still stands. Well, part of it still stands. I'm not sure how this building got its name, but the Ice Cream Castle was once somebody's home and I'm sure it was beautiful during those years.
10. Quinlan Castle (Birmingham, AL) - Quinlan Castle was built in the 1920s and at one time housed apartment units. Oh, I can only imagine how neat it would've been to live in a place like this in the 20s. If only we could go back in time!
If you enjoy exploring and discovering beautiful pieces of architecture, I suggest visiting these 10 castles. And remember, even though you can leave your passport at home, don’t forget to bring along your camera.
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Jennifer is the Alabama staff writer for Only In Your State and has nearly 15 years of professional writing experience. She enjoys discovering new places and currently calls North Alabama home.
