Castles often bring to mind vivid images of knights, dragons, and epic battles, captivating the imagination with tales of bravery and romance.
These grand structures evoke a sense of history and fantasy, making them timeless symbols of adventure and chivalry.
It’s fascinating to discover that such a romanticized and ancient relic exists not in the medieval countryside, but right in the heart of modern San Francisco.
Nestled within the bustling cityscape of San Francisco is a hidden gem, a 150-year-old medieval-style castle.
Originally built as a brewery, this castle stands as a testament to the rich history and architectural ingenuity of its time.
The story of this castle begins in the 1800s when John Bernell, an English immigrant, constructed it with the dream of creating a brewery that would harness the natural spring water flowing beneath the land.
John Bernell’s brewery, established in the late 19th century, utilized pure spring water for beer production.
This natural resource was crucial for brewing high-quality beer, and Bernell’s innovative use of the spring set his brewery apart.
The water, sourced from a natural spring, was stored in large pools and cisterns, holding up to 10,000 gallons.
This abundant and pristine water supply played a significant role in the brewery’s success.
Constructed with simple tools like hand picks and wheelbarrows, the castle’s construction was a laborious endeavor that spanned several years.
The thick stone walls, ranging from 12 to 18 inches, contributed to its resilience, allowing it to withstand the devastating 1906 earthquake with minimal damage.
The castle’s durability and the meticulous craftsmanship involved in its construction are evident even today.
Stepping inside the castle is like entering another world.
Visitors are transported from the industrial surroundings of San Francisco into a realm reminiscent of European medieval times.
The cavernous interior, which can hold thousands of gallons of water, showcases hand-carved marks on the walls, revealing the immense effort and skill that went into its creation.
The preserved artifacts, including original beer and water bottles, add to the historical ambiance.
Among the castle’s fascinating features is a speakeasy that dates back to the Prohibition era.
This hidden room within the castle speaks to a time when the production and sale of alcohol were forbidden, yet the castle’s secret operations continued.
The presence of such historical relics offers a glimpse into the past and the ingenuity of those who lived through it.
The preservation of the castle is remarkable, withstanding both the test of time and the natural calamities that struck the region.
The natural spring water that initially saved the property from being claimed by eminent domain remains a vital feature, ensuring the castle’s protection and continued existence.
This water source, deemed invaluable, even prevented the castle’s demolition in 1961 when a road construction plan threatened its existence.
Modern additions, such as fire insurance and other safety measures, have been incorporated to ensure the castle’s longevity and safety.
Despite these updates, the castle retains its historical charm and continues to serve as a venue for special occasions and tours.
Among its unique features is a musical toilet from the 1900s, adding a whimsical touch to the castle’s storied past.
The castle’s underground caves, hand-dug through granite, are a testament to the labor and dedication of its builders.
These caves, initially used for water storage and beer brewing, highlight the resourcefulness and hard work of the era.
Today, the castle stands not only as a relic of the past but as a well-preserved piece of history, offering a fascinating glimpse into the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the 19th century.
The castle’s ability to merge historical significance with modern functionality makes it a unique and captivating landmark in San Francisco.
Take the watery tour of this castle’s underground maze in the video below!
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