Modern history: Dandelions bloom, adding to the ambiance of history’s presence at Westminster Castle.[/caption]

The history of castles stems back thousands of years. From Europe to the Americas, castles have been a part of nearly every culture across the globe. Many castles were built for military purposes.

Castles were used to defend from attack and to protect conquered territories. Soldiers would stand guard at the gates and walls to fend off attackers.

Did you know that Colorado is home to several castles?

One of the castles is in Westminster, Colorado, but this one didn’t serve military purposes. The structure of the 175-foot-tall Westminster Castle began in 1892. Red rock sandstones were used to build the structure, giving it its unique color. It was completed in 1893.

The goal of this particular castle was to open a university. However, due to the severe economic depression and a few other challenges at the time, it would take nearly 15 years after completion for the Westminster University to open.

By 1908, the university welcomed its first class of 60 students, paying $50 for a year’s tuition. I bet they’re debt-free by now. All seemed to have been going well for the university until World War I when enrollment dropped to zero.

A plaque confirms Westminster Castle’s place in Colorado history.[/caption]

Westminster University Castle was purchased in 1920 for $40,000 and received $75,000 worth of repairs. By autumn of the same year, it was reopened as Belleview Schools. It received education accreditation in 1926.

In 2024, the castle received a new (red) roof. There are currently no public tours of Westminster Castle, but you can enter the property and enjoy the striking red sandstone building while enjoying a picnic or taking photos. The views of the Front Range from the castle aren’t bad either.

Perhaps, my love of medieval and Renaissance history combined with my time in Europe allows my heart to run wild and feel a sense of romanticism when I see a castle, but it’s truly a stunning sight to witness.

The Westminster Castle is located at 3455 W 83rd Avenue, Westminster. To learn more, visit https://coloradoencyclopedia.org/article/westminster-university.