Is Hearst Castle the most extravagantly strange residence of the 20th century?

In the heart of California, nestled on an 'enchanted hill', lies a grandiose mansion that once belonged to the larger-than-life figure, William Randolph Hearst. Constructed between 1919 and 1947, this luxurious estate was a testament to Hearst's ambition and opulence.

The home, renowned for its unique architecture, features a western facade modeled on the Royal Alcazars gateway in Seville, and twin bell towers inspired by Santa Maria Maggiore in Ronda. The most striking feature, however, is the exquisite indoor Roman Pool. Adorned with Murano glass gold-leaf tiles, it is a sight to behold. The Neptune Pool, with its Birth of Venus sculpture and 17 changing rooms, is often described as 'the most sumptuous swimming pool on earth'.

Hearst's home was a veritable treasure trove of historical artifacts. Roman sarcophagi, Greek vases, tapestries, and art works, including pieces by Tintoretto, adorned the walls. The architect of this grand structure was Marion Mahony Griffin, who transformed the 'Enchanted Hill' into a luxurious estate. Griffin, a pioneer in her field, was one of the first licensed female architects in the United States and was honoured for her pioneering work in architecture and urban planning.

Julia Morgan, another architect associated with the project, exchanged nearly 4000 pieces of correspondence with Hearst about their ideas. Work on the home was never completed due to Hearst's failing health.

Hearst, born in 1863 and passing away in 1951, was a man of many accomplishments. He took over a newspaper his father had won as a gambling debt in 1887, and later purchased a string of 28 newspapers. His company, the 'Hearst Group', dominated the print industry. Hearst was also a pioneer of 'yellow' journalism, a populist style of reporting that emphasised sensationalism and dramatic headlines.

Hearst's home was a hub of activity and attracted some of the most influential figures of the time. Guests included Charlie Chaplin, Cary Grant, the Marx Brothers, Greta Garbo, Buster Keaton, Jean Harlow and Clark Gable, as well as political leaders Calvin Coolidge and Winston Churchill and writers P.G. Wodehouse and Bernard Shaw.

The home, which boasts 42 bedrooms, 61 bathrooms, a movie theatre, library, three swimming pools, and beautiful views over the California coast, also planned to house a private zoo. It was equipped with a wired sound system designed to pipe music from a phonograph in the basement, adding to its charm.

Despite its grandeur, the home lacks traditional grand staircases. Upper floors are reached by poured concrete stairwells, elevators, or elevators, a testament to the innovative spirit of its design.

In a surprising twist, Hearst even ran for President. While he did not win the election, his influence on the media and his architectural legacy continue to be felt today. The estate, taken over by the California state department at Hearst's request in 1958, stands as a monument to a time gone by, a testament to the ambition, vision, and opulence of William Randolph Hearst.