Imagine having lots of money during a time when many others don't. You are the controversial owner of a huge media empire and with the vast amounts of wealth you have accumulated, you decide to build a castle in the clouds. Welcome, my friends, to Hearst Castle.
Constructed by famed architect Julia Morgan beginning in 1919, it sits atop "Camp Hill" as a testament to the power and vision of William Randolph Hearst. Finished in 1947, this Mediterranean Revival style compound sprawls over 127 acres of gardens, terraces, pools and walkways and has 165 rooms.
Inside, one is in awe at the magnificent collections of European and Mediterranean art, bought for pennies on the dollar. The rooms have grandiose ceilings, tiled walls and countless other high society touches. There is even a movie theatre on the grounds.
Outside, your breath is taken away by the beautiful marble fountains, breath-taking views of the Central California coast and the amazing Greek-columned pool where, at one time, Hearst hosted lavish parties which drew the rich and famous from around the globe.
After having experienced this place myself as a tourist, I can truly understand what architectural historian Lord John Julius Norwich meant when he said, "Hearst Castle is a palace in every sense of the word."