Posted in Texas
January 22, 2017
This Road Trip To Texas’ Most Majestic Castles Is Like Something From A Fairytale
Castles are some of the most magnificent buildings in the world. Normally, when we think about them, our mind instantly goes to the ones in Europe where queens and kings live. What if I told you Texas had its fair share of castles? It’s true – and while they may not be as grandiose as their European counterparts, they’re the next best thing without even having to leave our state. This road trip will take you to 9 of Texas’ most majestic castles and make you feel as if you’ve entered a fairytale. As usual, the Google Map has been created for you and can be found here. Have fun being king (or queen) for a day!
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
This castle was designed in 1879 by British architect Alfred Giles. It's now a registered historic landmark in Texas and can be rented out for private occasions.
Falkenstein Castle is a breathtaking architectural deep in the heart of Texas. It functions primarily as a wedding chapel, and a complete "royal package" costs about $5,000. There are few venues more romantic than a castle to tie the knot in.
Also a historic landmark, Old Red Museum was originally designed to be a courthouse but has been restored to a museum. It's open daily to the public for tours.
Experience the Renaissance firsthand at this eclectic entertainment venue as you watch jousting tournaments, eat a king's feast, and see knights in shining armor stationed at every corner. You'll be taken far away from Texas, that's for sure.
This grandiose courthouse was built in 1885 and is meant to be reminiscent of an Irish castle. Today, it's the visitor's center for Shelby County and is open to the public daily.
Bishop's Palace was built in the late 1880s as a home for lawyer and politician Walter Gresham and his family. It acquired its current name in 1923 after being sold to the Roman Catholic Diocese of Galveston. It's open for daily tours and can also be rented for special occasions. I've toured it many times and can vouch for its magnificence and Victorian beauty.
Also in Galveston, this castle was built in 1890 by Alfred Muller. It's over 7,000 square feet with a whopping 21 rooms, and is open for tours, weddings, and other special occasions.
The Maverick-Carter House was also designed by Alfred Giles in the image of grand Roman castles. It's now considered one of the most historic landmarks in San Antonio (next to the Alamo, of course.)
Once home to its namesake, sculptor Elisabet Ney, this beautiful mansion has been converted into a museum and is open Wednesday-Saturday for tours. Ney was a royal sculptor for the court of King George V of Hanover, so needless to say, her skills were impeccable and are reflected in this marvelous piece of architecture.
Have you visited any of these castles? Are there any other castles in Texas that we missed?
