Toronto is, contrary to popular belief, not just about skyscrapers and glass buildings. Hidden among the modern architecture is a charismatic castle that can certainly be counted as one of the city’s most fascinating attractions.
Casa Loma is one of Toronto’s most valuable cultural heritage sites, located in the capital of the Canadian province of Ontario. This neo-Gothic residence, situated on Austin Terrace, was born from the dream of a certain financier, and thanks to his determination, today this building not only enriches Canada’s largest city but also stands as one of the most popular tourist attractions in the region.
The Beginnings of Casa Loma
Behind the creation of the Canadian castle Casa Loma was none other than Sir Henry Pellatt, who, from his teenage years, operated under the family motto “Foremost if I can,” meaning the relentless drive to move forward. It was this mindset, combined with his passion for art and architecture, that led the Canadian dreamer to envision a residence on the hill.
The house, built in 1914, was a massive investment for its time, taking three years to complete at a staggering cost of $3.5 million. It was the largest private residence in the country at the time and one of the most grandiose in North America. From the outset, it was known for its innovative features and conveniences, such as a telephone line and the rare inclusion of a bidet in Lady Mary Pellatt’s bathroom. The residence also housed Toronto’s first-ever elevator.
FUN FACT: Casa Loma was Sir Henry’s greatest treasure but also his downfall. The upkeep of the mansion was extremely costly, and as a result, the owner sank further into debt. To alleviate the financial strain, he first began selling off the artworks housed in the castle, and by 1924, he was forced to sell his beloved hilltop home.
The Later History of Casa Loma
What can today’s Casa Loma boast about? The mansion is now owned by the City of Toronto and is considered one of Canada’s most charming attractions. After all, North America doesn’t have as many castles as Europe does. The beauty of this place is confirmed by the nearly 700,000 tourists who visit the site every year.
However, Casa Loma enchants not only tourists but also filmmakers. The castle is constantly rented out to film crews who choose it as a backdrop for their productions. Casa Loma has appeared in films such as the Oscar-winning Chicago (2002), X-Men (2000), and The Vow (2010). It’s not just filmmakers interested in booking the castle for their needs; wedding parties, event organizers, concerts, and balls are also regularly held here.
The Charm of the Castle
The villa is often referred to as a castle mainly because of its exterior architecture, which closely resembles a classic fairytale structure. Its impressive towers and crenellated parapets, the notched tops of the walls, give it a particularly majestic appearance. Casa Loma spans nearly 19,000 square meters and features 98 rooms spread across three floors. These rooms regularly host exhibitions, often focusing on early Toronto and Canadian history. However, the primary attraction for visitors is not just the exhibits but the opulent décor and lavish furnishings of the castle’s rooms.
The First Floor of the Castle
The most impressive feature of the ground floor, and the central highlight of the entire castle, is undoubtedly the Great Hall, boasting an 18-meter-high ceiling. This room once served as a ballroom, but its parquet floor is only one of many features worth noting. The hall is also home to a historic fireplace, carved figures adorning the pillars, and heavy mahogany doors that lead to Sir Henry Pellatt’s secret study. Adjacent to the Great Hall, you can find the library, with its ceiling adorned with Pellatt’s coat of arms, and the conservatory, lined with exquisite marble.
Other Parts of Casa Loma
The upper floors of the castle continue to offer a treasure trove of stunning interiors. Here, visitors can explore Sir Henry and Lady Mary’s bedrooms, guest rooms, and even a room specially designed for potential visits by members of the British royal family. The top floor also features a long corridor that has been transformed into a small Canadian Armed Forces museum.
The Castle Stables and Gardens
A visit to Casa Loma isn’t complete without exploring the grounds, as they hold even more surprises. To truly capture the lifestyle of Sir Henry Pellatt and his wife, a stop at the stables is essential. This separate building once housed the Pellatt family’s horses, and the luxurious stalls are still adorned with Spanish azulejo tiles and gilded nameplates for each horse. Next to the stables, you’ll find the old gardening rooms, where tools were once stored, and plants were tended. There’s also a permanent exhibit showcasing vintage vehicles.
By purchasing a ticket to the estate (which is best done in advance, for example, through this website), you’ll also gain access to the castle’s beautiful gardens, covering 5 acres around Casa Loma. These lush grounds provide the perfect setting to relax after touring the grand interiors. Visitors can enjoy the calming sound of fountains, stroll among vibrant flower beds, and admire the sculptures that line the charming pathways.
Practical information
- It is best to purchase tickets for the Casa Loma in advance. This way, you can avoid standing in long lines and reduce the risk of tickets being sold out.
- Address: 1 Austin Terrace, Toronto, ON M5R 1X8, Canada
- Buy tickets on GetYourGuide
