Craigdarroch Castle in Victoria, British Columbia

Craigdarroch Castle is a stunning example of Victorian-era architecture located in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. Built between 1887 and 1890, the castle was commissioned by Robert Dunsmuir, a wealthy coal baron and one of British Columbia’s most influential industrialists. Although Dunsmuir died before its completion, the castle was finished by his sons and became a lasting symbol of the family’s immense wealth and social standing.

Designed by architect Warren Heywood Williams, Craigdarroch Castle is a grand mansion built in the Richardsonian Romanesque style, featuring steeply pitched roofs, intricate stonework, and elaborate wood interiors. It boasts 39 rooms, four floors, and over 20,000 square feet of opulent space filled with period furnishings, stained glass windows, and detailed wood carvings made from oak, walnut, and mahogany.

Each room reflects the elegance and luxury of the late 19th century, from the grand staircase to the lavish drawing rooms and bedrooms. The tower, accessible to visitors, offers panoramic views of Victoria and the surrounding area.

Over the years, Craigdarroch Castle has served various purposes, including as a military hospital, a college, and a conservatory of music. Today, it operates as a historic house museum, allowing visitors to step back in time and experience the lifestyle of one of Canada’s wealthiest families during the Victorian era.

Managed by the Craigdarroch Castle Historical Museum Society, the site is preserved with great care and remains one of Victoria’s most popular tourist attractions. The castle not only offers insight into the opulence of the past but also stands as a testament to the economic and cultural development of British Columbia in the late 1800s. With its rich history and architectural beauty, Craigdarroch Castle continues to captivate visitors from around the world.