All the wonders behind Highclere Castle (with Map & Photos)

Highclere Castle is one of the main settings in the history of Downton Abbey. Owned by the Herbert family, the Earls of Carnarvon, it is a Victorian mansion, in the Elizabethan style. In addition to serving as the setting for the quintessential British series, this magnificent little house has appeared in a large number of series and films. Among them are his use as Wayne Manor in the Batman trilogy starring Christian Bale.

Highclere Castle
Highclere Castle

It is located in the county of Hampshire and its land occupies 20 square kilometers. This architectural marvel is the largest mansion in the county. The foundations on which the Highclere Castle is built date back to the 8th century; the bishops of Winchester owned it at the time and had a medieval palace built.

Highclere Castle
Highclere Castle

The mansion has been remodeled several times, changing its original shape. The High Elizabethan style of its façade dates back to the late 16th and early 17th centuries, when the architect Charles Barry (who was also responsible for remodeling the Parliament of London) decided to take inspiration from the Italian of the time to reform this architectural feat.

Highclere Castle
Highclere Castle

One of the surprises found inside the Highclere Castle is an exclusive Egyptian exhibition, existing thanks to the fact that the fifth Earl of Carnarvon, George Herbert, financed expeditions to the tombs of different pharaohs.

Highclere Castle
Highclere Castle

All these wonders, as well as others such as the extensive exterior gardens and a temple with Corinthian columns from the year 1743, can be visited at specific times of the year. Remember that it is still a family residence and, therefore, it is not always open to the public.

Highclere Castle Map