The Abandoned Swannanoa Palace In Virginia Is One Of The Most Beautiful Places In America

Virginia is brimming with abandoned sites. From former hospitals to schoolhouses and even an entire Renaissance Faire, there are several haunting places that seem to be frozen in time. Perhaps one of the most alluring abandoned places in Virginia is Swannanoa Palace. Built by a millionaire in 1912, the visually-stunning mansion now sits completely vacant of residents. It's not abandoned altogether, as it's privately owned by Skyline Swannanoa and open for tours, but there's no denying the haunting feeling of this glamourous summer abode. It's an intriguing part of Virginia history. Here's more on the fascinating history of Swannanoa Palace, one of the most beautiful places in America.

Sitting high above the Blue Ridge Mountains awaits an iconic landmark known as Swannanoa Palace.

The 1912 Italianate marble villa was the creation of Major James Dooley, a C&O executive, as a token of love for his wife Sally May.

Dooley was also the owner of Maymont in Richmond.

Over 300 artisans were hired to build the summer home, which is a replica of the Villa de Medici in Rome.

And while the size of the home is impressive, it's the details that truly stand out. No expense was spared in the creation of this residence, which features details such as a 4,000-piece Tiffany stained-glass window.

The home today isn't abandoned in the traditional sense, although no one lives here anymore. Despite the immense effort that the home required to build, it was only lived in for a few years.

Touring the home today, you'll feel a bit as though you've traveled back in time. You can imagine what it may have been like to live in such a palace.

So whether you're in the area or would love the opportunity to tour a historic home in Virginia, you'll find that a trip to Swannanoa is one you won't forget.

Please note: all tours must be scheduled in advance. 

Have you ever visited Swannanoa Palace? What did you think of one of the most intriguing abandoned places in Virginia? Be sure to share your thoughts with us in the comments -- we'd love to hear from you!