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Coral Castle - Landmark Review | Condé Nast Traveler

Find Coral Castle, Homestead, Florida, United States, ratings, photos, prices, expert advice, traveler reviews and tips, and more information from Condé Nast Traveler.

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Coral Castle - Landmark Review | Condé Nast Traveler Skip to main contentNewsletterSUBSCRIBESign InOpen Navigation MenuMenuInspirationDestinationsPlaces to StayNews & AdviceGOLD LISTShoppingCruiseWomen Who TravelVideoSALE: SUBSCRIBE AND GET 1 YEAR FOR $21.99 $5North AmericaChevronUnited StatesChevronFloridaChevronMiamiChevronReview: Coral CastleLimestone mixed with a bit of mystery.FacebookTwitterEmailPinterestSave thisSave this for later.FacebookTwitterEmailPinterestSave thisSave this for later.GettyChevronChevronPhotoshoursThu-Sun 9:00 AM-6:00 PMReviewed by Jennifer M. WoodWhat’s this place all about?This oolite limestone structure is both Miami mystery and landmark. For years and years between 1923 and 1951 under the cover of night, Latvian immigrant Edward Leedskalnin transformed more than 1,000 tons of coral rock into a world-renowned stone sculpture garden with walls, furniture, carvings, and a castle tower. Yet, even to this day, no one knows how he did it—some posited reverse magnetism, others suggested he had supernatural powers. Whatever your belief, there’s no denying that it’s a wondrous accomplishment indeed. And it's as much a testament to the power of one man’s single-minded dedication as it is to the magic of architecture. Tickets can be purchased online or on-site.Do we know anything else about its history?Though you’ll undoubtedly leave the Coral Castle Museum with an overwhelming curiosity as to how one man was able to build such a magnificent structure, there’s a sad side to the story as well: many believe that Leedskalnin built the property as a tribute to his 16-year-old fiancée, who called things off a day before the wedding. Though he invited her to visit the property a number of times, she never accepted.Is there a guide involved?Leedskalnin made a living by giving tours of the property while he continued to build it. Today, it's worth signing up for a tour as well; you'll be led around the museum by one of the knowledgeable guides. There are also audio stands throughout the property, which deliver a history of what you’re seeing in four languages.Who comes here?You'll find history buffs and architecture aficionados wandering the grounds of Coral Castle, mouths agape at the impressive structure. Given the fact that you practically need to drive right past The Everglades (some 15 miles away) in order to get to here, the landmark has become popular with visitors making the trek from Miami to Florida’s famed wetlands.Did it meet expectations?Even if the story of its creation doesn’t wow you, it’s hard not to be impressed when you see Coral Castle up close. Given the primitive tools that were available at the time it was constructed, even the most skeptical visitors will be a little dazzled.What or who do you think it’s best for?The castle is perfect for curiosity-seekers, history buffs, and conspiracy theorists, plus starry-eyed types taken with Leedskalnin's grand, if somewhat misplaced, romantic overture to his almost-bride.Location Map© Mapbox © OpenStreetMap Improve this mapCONTACT28655 South Dixie HighwayHomestead, Florida, 33033United States(305) 248-6345https://coralcastle.com/More To DiscoverhotelsactivitiesrestaurantsshopsRecommended hotelsJW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & SpaA resort island oasis unto itself.Read full reviewMr. C Coconut GroveNear the airport and the sea.Read full reviewView All Miami hotelsMiami Travel GuideWarm temperatures—and hotter beachesMore from Condé Nast Traveler11 Best Museums in MiamiBy Jennifer M. 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