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Casa Loma
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Landmark
Casa Loma is a magnificent Gothic Revival mansion in Toronto, constructed between 1911 and 1914 for the financier and industrialist Sir Henry Pellatt. Designed to resemble a medieval European castle, the residence features 98 rooms, two distinct towers, secret passages, and a 240-metre underground tunnel leading to the stables. Pellatt invested a fortune into the construction, but due to financial setbacks, he was later forced to abandon the estate, which was subsequently acquired by the City of Toronto. Today, Casa Loma operates as a popular museum and landmark, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. Its expansive gardens, ornate library, and grand architectural details have made it a frequent filming location for major Hollywood movies. The mansion stands as a fascinating monument to the wealth and grand ambitions of the Canadian elite during the early 20th century.
- Location: Canada
- Top sights: Lambton House · Serbian Eastern-Orthodox · Beth Habonim Congregation
- Nearby: Richmond Hill (5 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -3 | -3 | 1 | 6 | 11 | 18 | 22 | 22 | 18 | 12 | 5 | 1 |
| Rain mm | 54 | 49 | 53 | 71 | 73 | 71 | 75 | 59 | 66 | 74 | 66 | 63 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Casa Loma is a Gothic Revival mansion in Toronto with extensive gardens. Visitors can tour the opulent rooms and the estate, now open to the public.
Typical hours
Casa Loma is typically open daily 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM, with extended hours in summer. Check the website for current times before visiting.
Photography
Photography is allowed in most areas, but without flash in exhibit rooms. In the gardens, photos are unrestricted.
Time needed
A visit typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the house and gardens. For an in-depth tour, allow more time.
Combine with
Combine with a walk in the nearby Forest Hill neighborhood. The Royal Ontario Museum is also a short drive away.
Getting there
Casa Loma is accessible by subway (Dupont station) then on foot. There is on-site parking for a fee.
Insider tip
Visit on a weekday to avoid large crowds. Make use of the audio guide for additional background information.
Geography
Facts
- The construction cost Sir Henry Pellatt approximately 3.5 million dollars.
- The mansion covers a floor area of about 6,000 square metres.
- An underground tunnel connects the main house to the luxury stables.
- The house features a massive library with space for 10,000 volumes.
- It has served as a set for films including 'X-Men' and 'Chicago'.
- The City of Toronto seized the property in 1933 for unpaid taxes.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Casa Loma (13)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is Casa Loma?
It is a Gothic Revival style castle located in the heart of Toronto.
Who built the castle?
It was built in the early 20th century for Sir Henry Pellatt.
Are there secret passages?
Yes, there are tunnels connecting the main house to the stables.
Is Casa Loma used as a filming location?
Yes, many movies like X-Men and Chicago were filmed there.
Are there gardens at the castle?
Yes, the extensive gardens are especially beautiful during the summer.
Casa Loma: where is it located?
Casa Loma is located in Canada.
Casa Loma: what is there to see?
Highlights include Lambton House, Serbian Eastern-Orthodox, Beth Habonim Congregation.
Casa Loma: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Casa Loma: why is it worth visiting?
Casa Loma is a magnificent Gothic Revival mansion in Toronto, constructed between 1911 and 1914 for the financier and industrialist Sir Henry Pellatt.
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