A real castle, found right in the middle of Victoria British Columbia.A real castle, found right in the middle of Victoria British Columbia.
Built by coal baron Robert Dunsmuir. One of the most famous heritage buildings in town. At one time the Dunsmuirs were the weathiest folk in British Columbia, and the castle sat high on a hill overlooking the still evolving city. Sadly, Robert himself never got to live in the place!
Over the years the castle has gone through a number of changes. The family fought over it, the bank repossed it. The estate was subdivided, and the castle was actually raffled off. It was a school, a hospital during the war, a music conservatory and now a heritage attraction for all to enjoy. Under the direction of "The Castle Society" it is slowly being restored to its former glory for us all to enjoy.
From its balconies you can still see Victoria spread out at your feet.
When you look out, try and spot the residence of the Governor General of
BC. It is the largest garden visible, and only a few blocks away.
Your tour of the castle is self guided, but as you go from room to
room there are volunteers to explain the contents. So, be prepared to take
your time and enjoy the place. Pay particular attention to the stained glass
windows, the rugs and magnificent woodworking.
Flash photography is not allowed, but here is a hint. Use a good high speed film, and don't point the camera at windows or lights and you will probably get good pictures.
There a lots of things to see. When you get to the one room that was
used as a hospital room, and is still unrestored pay particular attention
to some of the dates on the carved graphiti on the walls.
I hope you have enjoyed this little tour. There are all sorts of things on my website of interest, so you can go back to the places index, or my main page for more of my ranting, raving and roving.
Either way, thank you for taking the time to visit.
73, Tom