Hearst Castle is a national and historical landmark located at San Simeon, on the central coast of California. It was designed by architect Julia Morgan between 1919 and 1947 for newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst. Its considerable collection of art and antiques spanning thousands of years is open for public tours. The castle is a part of the California State Park System and attracts millions of visitors from around the world annually.

For more photos and commentary on Hearst Castle, please visit my 10BEST/USA TODAY article, as well as my complete PHOTO GALLERY.