Wealth and ego were the hallmarks of the castle’s original owner. When Victoria shipping and mining industrialist Robert Dunsmuir struck it rich in the coalfields, he decided to build a monument to his wealth on the highest spot in Victoria. He began construction of the castle in 1887 but died in 1889, a year before the castle was completed. His widow Joan Dunsmuir and her family moved into the completed building in 1890 and lived there until her death in 1908.

After Joan Dunsmuir’s passing, the Craigdarroch estate was subdivided, raffled off and then repossessed by the bank. Over the years, the castle has served as a hospital, university and music conservatory. It is now owned by the Craigdarroch Castle Historical Museum Society and is host to more than 150,000 annual visitors.

Craigdarroch Castle is a large and well-preserved example of the mansions built by wealthy individuals throughout North America from the late 1870s until the 1920s. It consists of five floors, 39 rooms and 17 fireplaces. Internationally renowned for its fine stained and leaded glass and woodwork, the castle is full of Victorian furniture and artifacts. With over 20,000 square feet of space, the house is being restored exactly to its original specifications, as are the gardens. Most days, you will find artisans working on various restorations.

The castle is frequently the site of some of Victoria’s more elegant gatherings and the set for numerous movies including "Little Women," "Cats & Dogs," and "Spooky House."

Written By: Maria Lironi

Features
Kid Friendly

Comments
My husband and I went to visit this old castle.It was amazing,the woodwork,stainglass the staircasings and rooms.The history of the family is incredible. It was like I was living in that era...looking through each room and picturing the family and what they were doing.Also picturing the tragedy that they faced.It was sad that Robert couldn't live in the home he made.I didn't want to leave ,I could of spent the whole day there.I will let all my friends know that this is truely the high light of Victoria.I will go back! And the people who work there are amazing,giving you information if you want it. S.Barnes
- S.Barnes on Mon, December 3, 2007

This was a wonderful old place to visit. The woodwork, stained glass and furnishings were beautiful. I felt like I had stepped back in time and loved it. Would go back again in a heartbeat!
- J Kinkley on Sat, February 3, 2007

I feel lucky to have one fireplace. Sheesh! Definatly a neat place to visit. The view is great, and it's really interesting to think about the family that lived there and had their parties etc. The stained glass is amazing. If only we could all have a house like that. If you like Craigdarroch Castle, you should also check out Point Ellice House. I've heard that they were friends of the Dunsmuirs'.
- S. Peter on Mon, December 11, 2006

Add Your Comments
Please Enter ONLY Comments. DO NOT ENTER Questions or requests for information. They will NOT be answered and will be deleted. You need to contact the establishments directly for answers to your questions.

Your Name

Your Email

Subject of Comment

Your Comment

Type The Characters You See From The Image Below

Want us to link your web site? Just Fill Our our link request form by clicking here.

See something you like? Something you don't like? Send us your feedback. Let us know what you want to see on Vancouver Island, it's your web site! Email us at webmaster@kulshan.com

Copyright 1999-2006 Berry International ALL RIGHTS RESERVED