The Magic Kingdom’s Iconic Castle: A Guide to Cinderella Castle
Which Castle is at Disney World?
When it comes to Disney World, there are four main theme parks to explore: Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom. However, of all these parks, one castle stands tall as a beacon of magic and wonder – Cinderella Castle. This majestic structure is the crown jewel of the Magic Kingdom and a must-visit attraction for any Disney fan.
A Brief History of Cinderella Castle
Cinderella Castle was originally constructed in 1971 as a temporary structure to celebrate the opening of the Magic Kingdom. It was designed by architects Geoffrey Akers Duval and his wife, Aline Saurenjart, and took just nine days to build. The original design featured a distinctive peak on top, but after a reported "explosion" during construction, the peak was later replaced with the iconic stone spire that we see today.
The Meaning Behind Cinderella Castle
Cinderella Castle’s design is inspired by European castles, with a mix of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque styles. The castle’s architecture is characterized by its use of terracotta, limestone, and granite, which give it a warm, rustic appearance. The castle’s overall design is meant to evoke the classic fairy tale, with its delicate spires, sweeping arches, and intricate details.
Interesting Facts About Cinderella Castle
Here are some interesting facts about Cinderella Castle:
- Original Height: The original Cinderella Castle stood at an impressive 189 feet (57.6 meters) tall.
- Stone Crest: The stone crest on top of the castle is made up of over 20,000 pounds of limestone and is supported by a series of anchor bolts.
- Wind Damage: The castle has experienced several instances of wind damage over the years, including a 1994 incident where the castle’s stone spire was damaged in a storm.
- Rotting Ball: One of the most infamous stories about Cinderella Castle is that the ball was actually a key plot device in the 1950 Disney animated film "Fantasia."
Inside Cinderella Castle
While the exterior of Cinderella Castle is undoubtedly the most famous, the interior is also a marvel to behold. Here are some interesting facts about the castle’s inner workings:
- Ground Floor: The ground floor of the castle features a large parking lot, a rest area, and a gift shop.
- Second Floor: The second floor of the castle houses the main lobby, a large restaurant called Liberty Tree Tavern, and the iconic ballroom.
- Third Floor: The third floor of the castle is home to a few more attractions, including a stables and a statue of Cinderella’s animal friends.
Attractions and Exhibits Inside Cinderella Castle
Here are some of the attractions and exhibits you can find inside Cinderella Castle:
- It’s a Small World: This classic Disney attraction is located in the ballroom of the castle and features animatronic dolls dressed in traditional costumes from around the world.
- Haunted Mansion: The Haunted Mansion is located in the eastern wing of the castle and features a spooky atmosphere and various ghosts and ghouls.
- Living with the Land: This state-of-the-art pavilion is home to a diverse array of exhibits on sustainable agriculture, including a working wetlands and a display on the importance of conservation.
Fun Facts and Trivia
Here are some fun facts and trivia about Cinderella Castle:
- Guests: Cinderella Castle is the most photographed location in Disney World, with over 20 million visitors per year.
- Coroners: The original coroner’s office in Cinderella Castle was a small, stone building that was completed in 1971.
- Maintenance: The castle is only fully restored every 25 years, with the previous restoration being completed in 2000.
Conclusion
Cinderella Castle is a must-see attraction for any Disney fan, and a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the magic of the Magic Kingdom. With its stunning architecture, iconic spire, and rich history, it’s no wonder that Cinderella Castle remains one of the most beloved and recognizable landmarks in the world. Whether you’re a kid or a kid-at-heart, Cinderella Castle is an experience you won’t want to miss.