Belvedere Castle, New York City

Perched atop Vista Rock in Central Park, New York City, Belvedere Castle offers visitors a fairy-tale-like experience amidst the urban landscape. This folly, constructed in 1869 under the guidance of Calvert Vaux and Jacob Wrey Mould, was designed to serve as a whimsical landscape feature overlooking the park. Its name, "Belvedere," aptly means "beautiful view" in Italian, a nod to the stunning vistas it provides of the Great Lawn and the Turtle Pond, as well as the city skyline.

Though not a castle in the traditional sense—lacking the fortifications or royal history—Belvedere Castle is built in the style of a Gothic and Romanesque fortress. It features grand facades, parapets, and a lookout tower, making it an enchanting backdrop for photographs and a captivating sight for those strolling through Central Park.

The Castle is not only a visual treat but also serves a practical purpose. Since 1919, the National Weather Service has used the tower for measuring New York City's rainfall and temperature, due to its elevation. For the average tourist, the Castle houses a visitor center and a nature observatory, which offers educational resources about the park's flora and fauna.

Visitors can climb the castle's winding staircases to access the observation decks, where the panoramic views of the surrounding parkland and the urban horizon beyond are truly breathtaking. Whether you're a nature lover, a history buff, or simply seeking a picturesque escape from the city's hustle, Belvedere Castle promises a unique and memorable experience.