The Breakers, Newport

Nestled along the picturesque cliffs of Newport, Rhode Island, The Breakers stands as a testament to the opulence of the Gilded Age. This palatial mansion, completed in 1895, was the summer home of Cornelius Vanderbilt II, a member of the wealthy Vanderbilt family. The Breakers is not just a mansion but an embodiment of architectural grandeur and historical richness.

The 70-room Italian Renaissance-style villa boasts a facade that is as imposing as it is beautiful, with elaborate ornamentation and a commanding view of the Atlantic Ocean. The interior of The Breakers is equally stunning, with intricate details that include rare marble, gilded rooms, and exceptional mosaics. The mansion's design was inspired by the palaces of Genoa and Turin, and it is considered one of the most elegant and refined examples of its era.

Visitors can explore the mansion through a variety of tours that offer insights into the lives of the Vanderbilt family and the domestic staff who maintained the estate. The grand hall, with its 50-foot ceilings, sets the tone for the lavishness that characterizes the rest of the home. Each room, from the grand dining room to the library and morning room, is meticulously preserved, providing a glimpse into the opulence of America's elite at the turn of the century.

The grounds of The Breakers are no less impressive. The estate spans approximately 13 acres and features a meticulously landscaped park with terraces that look out over the rugged coastline. The gardens and walking paths offer a serene retreat and complement the architectural magnificence of the mansion.