Everyone knows of the marvel that is Cinderella's Castle at Disney here in Florida. But Coral Castle is compared to the greatness of Stonehenge. Created by architect and engineer Edward Leedskalnin using very basic physics to build this tropical castle. We hit this roadside sight on our way down to the Keys. It is the perfect stop-off and a definite must-see!
Edward was originally from Latvia, where his family had mastered the trade of stonemasons. He was so excited to marry the love of his life, Agnes, when she called off the wedding. Building this castle and monument to lost love was his way of coping. He had started the build in Florida City but then bought land in Homestead and spent three years moving the structure to its new location. He did all the carving using hand tools and moved all the stones, and placed them himself. Keeping in mind, this man was only about 5 feet tall! No wonder it was a marvel!
We could see the top of part of the castle from the road. When you walk up, you do feel like you are entering a majestic home. And Edward did live here for many years! Each structure was created with a purpose.
The first showcase of his engineering was a three-ton rock that you could easily push one way, but not the other, as it rotated on Model T Ford axel and Coca-Cola bottle neck.
His formal dining room table was in the shape of Florida, with a pool of water representing Lake Okeechobee.
Over yonder, we have his pool.
He even built a telescope!
The crossed wires at the far end align with the North Star.
This part was the most impressive. He created a sundial calendar tracking the month, days, and seasons!
The beautiful and serene moon fountain.
Mirror, mirror, in the stone...
His oven was great for making hot dogs, according to our guide Tom (who was fantastic).
Always a romantic, a table in the shape of a heart.
To some, this might look like just a rock clump, but if you look closely...
Tom called it Edward's self-portrait.
While these rock creations were for show and a little for function, Edward did live upstairs in the tower. It was very primitive living conditions, but he was happy. And it did have a nice view.
Coral Castle is not only an impressive monument but beautiful as well. All created by the talent and ingenuity of a single man, a true labor of love. No matter where you are on your road trip, stop off in Homestead to view the roadside magnificent sight!
Below is a map of the castle and its grounds:
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