Once an estate for a newspaper magnate, art collector and movie producer, William Randolph Hearst, Hearst Castle is now a historic house museum and a California State Park. Called "La Cuesta Encantada," or the Enchanted Hill took 28 years, $6.5 million on the building and $3.5 million on fantastic art from all over the world to fill the rooms to be ready. Many specific aspects of the castle were inspired by a trip young William took with his mother around Europe.
The architect was Julia Morgan, who was the first woman to receive a certification in architecture from L'École des Beaux-Arts in Paris and California's first licensed female architect.
Hearst entertained a number of political leaders, cultural icons and Hollywood's elite at the Castle—all with noted actress (and notably not-his-wife) Marion Davies as hostess.
The art collection, wild life and history are really impressive and worth a tour!!!
