Featured in Ripley's Believe It or Not!
Today, on Ripley’s Round Trip, we’re taking you on a journey to the enchanting Coral Castle Museum in South Florida, an extraordinary stone sculpture garden built single-handedly by a man named Edward Leedskalnin. This bizarre destination is a must for your adventure list, so let’s dive in.
At the age of 26, Edward became engaged to his one true love, Agnes Scuffs. Scuffs sadly canceled their wedding just one day before the ceremony, leaving Ed heartbroken. In an attempt to create a monument for his lost love, Ed began his lifelong quest to build the Coral Castle. Incredibly, Ed cut and moved over 1,100 tons of coral rock with only hand tools!
Despite being just over 5 feet tall and weighing around 100 pounds, he relied on his knowledge of weight and leverage. He also used his skills he acquired working in lumber camps and from his family of stonemasons in Latvia.
Edward Leedskalnin in Latvia, circa 1910. Credit: Wikimedia Commons.
The Coral Castle in South Florida has been compared to the major mysteries and monumental accomplishments of the world. Comparisons include the pyramids in Egypt Stonehenge in England and the Taj Mahal in India. It’s believed that its creator Edward Leedskalnin was single-mindedly determined to build a monument to his lost love.
As you tour the Coral Castle, you’ll witness a 9-ton gate that moves with just a touch of a finger! You’ll also find a Polaris telescope, and functioning rocking chairs—all made entirely of stone. Believe It or Not!, Ed worked mostly at night by lantern light, ensuring his methods remained a mystery.
The theories surrounding Coral Castle include Ed’s supernatural powers and his claim of knowing the secrets used to build the ancient pyramids. Some believe that Ed’s monument was built simply as an homage to unrequited love. Others however, believe it was built to illustrate ancient sciences that defy gravity. Whatever the reason behind its construction, the Coral Castle stands as an everlasting mystery and serves as a testament to his incredible determination and devotion.
Well adventurers, we hope you enjoyed exploring the mysterious Coral Castle and learning about Edwards’ awe-inspiring achievement. If you enjoyed this episode, drop some destinations in the comments below! Who knows, it just may end up on a Ripley’s Round Trip. Until next time, happy adventuring!
