subject: Castle Island - A Stone Fort With A Grand Past [print this page] An average-sized metropolis with a big attitude, Boston is a heavy weight when it comes to its role in American history. Many battles have been fought out over theses grounds, ranging from the cultural revolutions to the War for Independence. May be because of its less than perfect past, Boston of today has garnered a reputation of not following the band wagon. Embracing controversial concepts in its stride, it has earned itself titles such as the Athens of America and the Cradle of liberty.
Rich in culture, this city has many spectacular spots that are worth visiting. One such place is Castle Island. Known as such because the fort that was built at that time was known as The Castle, it has played a vital role in the safe keeping of the city itself. Theres a bloody history that surrounds the walls of the castle, the least of which is when the island was destroyed in 1776 by the retreating British troops. It was later reconstructed under the guidance of Lt. Paul Revere. The structure as it stands at present is believed to be the eighth fort to be built on the site. This five corner granite structure was built somewhere in 1855 with the use of over 172,687 stones under the guidance of Colonel Sylvanus Thayer.
The castle has a fascinating past that is not only related to military activities. Drawn by its fabled history there have been many myths surrounding the fort as well. The year 1818 witnessed how the people of Boston experienced a bout of fear and panic after rumors of enormous sea serpents having being sighted were reported. Further more, famous writer Edgar Allen Poe has also used the castle as a muse for his work "The Cask of Amontillado". The year 1962 saw the Castle being sold to the MDC as it was no longer needed for defense purposes and in 1970 it finally entered into the Register of National Historic Places.
There are various Boston hotels in and around the city that will provide the visitor with adequate accommodation. But if you are looking for a luxury hotel in Boston the place to stay is The Langham Boston. An enchanting and timeless hotel, it effortlessly captures the elegance of its older predecessor. Described as a tranquil haven of luxury, its assured to be one of the best hotels in Boston.
