There's something magic about the idea of a castle. It conjures up memories of princes and princesses, fairy tales spun late at night and the cotton candy sweetness of childhood. What if we told you, though, that the magic of the past doesn't have to stay there? Here in Tennessee, tucked back high in the hills, are five castles that are sure to get your imagination working overtime. Take a look!
5) Sewanee is located in the southernmost part of the state, slightly northwest of Chattanooga. The University of the South may be known for fantastic academics and a solid graduating class of professionals, but take a look at that architecture. The castle-like structuring is a beautiful testament to the school's religious affiliation, and is a timely nod to the days of education past. Even if you choose to simply walk the campus, you'll feel as though you've gone back in time.
4) Historic Rock Castle may at first look like just another historic home with a Civil War past, but take a closer look - this place? Made completely of limestone. The Federal-style building served as a home to native Virginian Daniel Smith and sits on a stunning piece of Tennessee land.
Even though Rock Castle may be a different kind of kingdom, this view and that lake is fit for a king.
The grounds once stretched over 13,000 acres, though it was recently pared down for modern development.
3) Located in Rock Island State Park, the Spring Castle is actually a large spring house, a building used as a form of refrigeration when the cotton mill on the property was running.
It has an eerie beauty to it, there's something fantastical about an old stone castle surrounded by trees.
2) Crantzdorf Castle is in Johnson City and is a gorgeous estate that is actually - get this - FOR SALE in East Tennessee. It was modeled after the palace in Spain, and it's a beautiful getaway if you're looking to take in the Appalachian Mountains in style. You can even cross the border into North Carolina, if you so fancy, because forty-five minutes will have you cracking state lines.
1) The Renaissance Festival in Tennessee is graced by the gentle gaze of this giant castle, known as Castle Gwynn. Located in Arrington, this replica of a Welsh castle is a place of wonder and excitement. It serves as the private home to Mike Freeman, the mastermind behind the whole of it, who has spent twenty-six years creating perfection.
Castle Gwynn is made of 14,000 bricks, boasts limestone walls and two towers connected by a brick cloister. With updates being planned continually this place will be different every time you visit.
Tennessee may be known for southern hospitality, but it houses just a bit of magic, too. Who knows what goes on behind these mystical walls.
Maybe Cinderella didn't make her home in Sewanee, but we're sure if Georgia hadn't claimed Scarlett O'Hara she would have been just fine holding court in a southern palace. Have you been to any of these fantastic places? Know of any other secret castles? Let us know in the comments below!
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