Casa Loma
Ontario
Casa Loma, meaning "Hill House" in Spanish, is a grand Gothic Revival mansion located in midtown Toronto, Ontario. Built between 1911 and 1914 by financier Sir Henry Pellatt and designed by architect E. J. Lennox, it stands as one of Canada's largest private residences with 98 rooms spanning 64,700 square feet. The castle features unique amenities such as an elevator, a massive oven, secret passages, and a basement with a pool and bowling lanes, although some were never completed. Casa Loma sits atop a hill 140 meters above sea level, offering commanding views. Over the years, it has served various roles, including a private home, luxury hotel, and wartime research facility. Today, it operates as a historic house museum and event venue, attracting visitors with its stunning architecture, gardens, and exhibits, including the Regimental Museum of The Queen's Own Rifles of Canada. Its distinctive character has made it a popular filming location and a cherished cultural landmark in Toronto.
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Astuce: For the best experience, visit Casa Loma during weekdays or early mornings to avoid crowds. Purchase date-specific general admission tickets online in advance to secure entry and explore special events such as the Twilight Symphony or Mother's Day High Tea. The castle offers evening rentals for private events, and discounted rates are available for seniors, students, and children. Check the official website for seasonal hours and special programming to enhance your visit.
Faits intéressants
- •Casa Loma is built at an elevation of 140 meters above sea level, 66 meters above Lake Ontario.
- •The mansion originally had 98 rooms and included unique features such as two secret passages and a basement bowling alley that was never completed.
- •During World War II, the stables were used secretly for sonar research and production, concealed behind 'Under Repairs' signs.
- •Casa Loma was briefly a luxury hotel and popular nightlife spot during Prohibition, hosting the famous Casa Loma Orchestra.
- •The property was seized by the city in 1924 due to unpaid taxes, leading to years of vacancy before preservation efforts began.
Histoire
Casa Loma was commissioned by Sir Henry Pellatt in 1911 and completed in 1914, designed by architect E.
J.
Lennox.
It was the largest private residence in Canada at the time, costing about $3.5 million.
Pellatt lived there for less than a decade before financial difficulties forced him to leave in 1923.
The city seized the property in 1924 due to unpaid taxes, and it briefly operated as a luxury hotel during Prohibition.
In the 1930s, the Kiwanis Club leased the mansion to preserve it as a tourist destination.
During World War II, the stables were used covertly for sonar research and production.
Since then, Casa Loma has been maintained as a historic museum and cultural venue.
Guide du lieu
Grand Entrance and Main Hall1914
The impressive entrance features ornate Gothic Revival architecture with grand staircases and detailed woodwork, setting the tone for the castle's opulence.
Sir Henry Pellatt's Office1914
This ground-floor office contains two secret passages once used by Pellatt, showcasing the castle's unique design features.
The Regimental Museum1914
Located on the mostly unfinished third floor, this museum honors The Queen's Own Rifles of Canada, reflecting Pellatt's military service and dedication.
The Gardens and Grounds
Beautifully maintained gardens surround Casa Loma, offering scenic views and tranquil walking paths at the castle's elevated site.
Contact
Téléphone: (416) 923-1171