Many people are fascinated by castles, and rightly so. Castles are located all over the world and are a top tourist attraction, with millions of people booking castle vacations every year.

1. Hearst Castle. William Randolph Hearst is the man who came up with the idea of building Hearst Castle, which is considered to be one of the most impressive architectural feats built to this day. Hearst Castle, also known as The Enchanted Hill, is located in San Simeon and was built between the years of 1919 and 1947. The castle is made up of four different buildings, and includes 165 rooms, of which many overlook the more than 100 acres of gorgeous gardens.

Historic people include Winston Churchill, Calvin Coolidge, more.

2. Loire Valley Châteaux. Numerous historical events have taken place at the Loire Valley Châteaux, which was built in the earlier part of the Middle Ages. Even though King Francois I left in the middle of the 16^th century to return to Paris, taking many esteemed architects with him, the Loire Valley Chateaux continued in its popularity amongst French royalty.

Historic people include Leonardo Da Vinci.

3. Dover Castle. Dover Castle was built in the 11^th century, and modified in the 18^th century to provide the protection necessary from Napoleon’s troops. The possibility of England being invaded prompted modifications that allowed English troops to stay in tunnels built under the castle. These tunnels eventually became the head office for the navy. Under Vice Admiral Bertram Ramsey’s command more than 300,000 troops were rescued and brought back to Dover’s hidden tunnels for safety.

Historic people include Henry II, Thomas Beckett (Archbishop of Canterbury), Vice Admiral Bertram Ramsey.

4. Rochester Castle. Built in the 11^th century, Rochester Castle is a great example of Norman architecture. The castle is one of the tallest in the area (113 feet) and was built very close to the area where Romans created a defense in order to guard the area, ensuring their safety.

Historic people include Henry 1, Henry II, Edward III, Richard II, Elizabeth I, Bishop Gundolf.

5. Luttrellstown Castle. Robert Luttrell came to Ireland in the 1400s where he used his influence to build Luttrellstown Castle. Family owned until the 1800s, beer mogul Ernest Guinness bought the castle in 1927. He gave the castle to his daughter as a wedding gift, who soon became a hostess to the rich and famous.

Historic people include Queen Victoria, Princess Grace of Monaco, Fred Astaire, and President Ronald Regan.

Jody’s Travel Inc