Edward Leedskalninsh's “Coral Castle” is often called modern Stonehenge. This structure of huge stone blocks was built alone by an ordinary person of medium build. How did the author of such an unusual project succeed, and why did he build his castle?
Edward Leedskallins: Curriculum Vitae
The man, who became famous throughout the world as the chief architect and builder of an unusual stone structure, was born in the countryside near Riga. At the age of 26, Edward Leedskalnins passionately fell in love with a girl from his village and made her an offer. His lover, Agnes Scuffs, first agreed to the marriage proposal, and then refused. An upset and offended man collected the last money and left Latvia for America forever.
10 years after emigration, he acquired land and began to erect a building, which the neighbors will call the “Coral Castle” by Edward Lidskalninsha. Lumps of coral limestone served as the material for the construction. "Moody Ed," as he was nicknamed for indolence, always worked alone and only at night. He did not use any special equipment and modern construction equipment. At the same time, Edward Lidskalninsha's “Coral Castle” is growing before our eyes.
"Coral Castle" or "Stone Gate"?
The construction of an unusual structure was begun in 1920. After 10 years, when the complex of buildings has become an unofficial attraction, the construction of a residential building was planned on the neighboring site. Upon learning of this, Edward Leedskalnins quickly hired a single truck and in several calls moved his creation to another place. Their owner performed the loading of stone blocks individually, without the use of special equipment. An interesting fact is that the modern name “Coral Castle” by Edward Lidskalninsha was given to the construction by the master’s neighbors. The author himself often called his brainchild "Stone Gate".
Edward passed away in 1951 due to a serious illness. He never revealed his main secret. Until his death, the wizard architect remained closed and unsociable. Sometimes he talked about revealing the secrets of the universe and creating his castle, using the experience of the ancient Egyptians - the builders of the pyramids. After the death of the creator, many examinations were carried out, but it was not possible to understand how the “Coral Castle” was built by Edward Lidskalninsha. A photo of this unusual building does not fully convey its scale, the weight of some blocks reaches 5 tons. Today the “castle” has been turned into a tourist attraction and is open to the public.