Marble House, Newport (must see)

Marble House, an opulent Gilded Age mansion, stands as a testament to an era marked by extravagance and architectural grandeur. Built between 1888 and 1892, it was conceived as a summer cottage for Alva and William Kissam Vanderbilt and was masterfully designed in the Beaux Arts style by the esteemed architect Richard Morris Hunt.

Marble House is the embodiment of luxury and was unparalleled in opulence for an American residence when it was completed in 1892. Its temple-front portico, reminiscent of the White House, adds to its grandeur, setting it apart as an architectural jewel.

This mansion's historical significance is duly recognized, earning it a place on the National Register of Historic Places in 1971 and the prestigious title of a National Historic Landmark in 2006. Today, Marble House is open to the public, lovingly maintained and curated as a museum under the care of the Newport Preservation Society.

A visit to Marble House is a journey back in time, where you can explore not only the architectural splendor but also the social history that helped transform Newport. The mansion, with its fifty rooms, was a social landmark that played a pivotal role in reshaping Newport from a relaxed summer colony of wooden houses into the opulent resort known for its stone palaces today.

Maintaining Marble House in its grandeur was no small feat. It required a dedicated staff of 36 servants, including butlers, maids, coachmen, and footmen, to ensure that its elegance and prestige remained undiminished.

As you explore Marble House, you'll notice the subtle influence of French architecture. Loosely inspired by the Petit Trianon at the Palace of Versailles, the mansion's French-inspired interiors were designed by Jules Allard and Sons of Paris. These designs are a testament to the Vanderbilt family's commitment to excellence and elegance.

The grounds of Marble House were designed by landscape architect Ernest W. Bowditch, adding to the overall charm of the estate. The mansion's interiors have also made appearances in various films and television series, cementing its status as a cultural and historical landmark.