Fantasy Meets Royal Reality
Turns out, Cinderella's home has more tricks up its sleeve than any fairy godmother. Beyond its picture-perfect exterior lies a glamorous world of illusions and stories. Let’s find out more.
1971 Beginnings
Here's a piece of Disney magic that started in 1971. The Cinderella Castle's construction wrapped up that July, taking just 18 months to complete. When measuring from the concrete bottom of the water moat, this exalted structure reaches around 189 feet into the Florida sky.
Strategic Height Limitation
What's fascinating is that this specific height wasn't chosen at random. Disney's Imagineers had to keep it under 190 feet. Why? Any building taller than that in Florida would have required a red, flashing aircraft beacon on top, which would have broken the fantastical illusion.
SteamFan, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons
The Impressive Moat System
The massive moat surrounding Cinderella Castle holds approximately 3.37 million gallons of water. It serves multiple purposes and is also a part of Disney's clever strategy to prevent mosquitoes. However, unlike its California cousin at Sleeping Beauty Castle, this one can't actually be raised.
Chad Sparkes from Kissimmee,Florida, United States, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
Secret Of The Turrets
Let's talk about one of the castle's most enchanting features—its turrets. The castle has around 27 of them, numbered from 1 to 29. But here’s where it gets interesting. Turrets 13 and 17 don't exist. Before construction even began, these two turrets were removed from the plans.
Sam Howzit, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
Turret Architecture Highlights
This is because they would have been completely hidden behind other Fantasyland buildings. Anyway, the remaining turrets craft the castle's silhouette, with Turret 20 standing as the tallest and Turret 10 housing the clock. Adding to the golden touch, Turret 23 features one of only two golden-roofed towers.
Clement Bardot, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Building Materials And Engineering
Would you believe that what appears to be a medieval marble castle is actually a triumph of modern engineering? The castle's framework consists of around six hundred tons of steel-braced construction. This is surrounded by a 10-inch-thick reinforced concrete wall.
ArcelorMittal Kryvyi Rih, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Foundation Innovation
Apparently, the entire structure sits atop a concrete-drilled caisson foundation that ensures stability in Florida's challenging soil conditions. This sturdy construction delivers the best foundation for the castle's outer shell, which uses a combination of plaster and fiberglass to give its regal look.
Is Disney World's Cinderella's Royal Table Worth It? by DFBGuide
Vertical Transportation System
Three separate elevators serve different purposes within the structure: one for guest access to Cinderella's Royal Table restaurant, another as a dumb waiter for kitchen operations, and a third primarily used by cast members accessing various castle areas. This design provides both safety and functionality.
Is Disney World's Cinderella's Royal Table Worth It? by DFBGuide
The Beautiful Mosaics
When you walk through the castle's archway and look up, you’ll see one of the coolest artistic displays at Disney World. There are five amazing mosaic murals, each about 15 feet by 10 feet, that tell the story of Cinderella using more than 300,000 pieces of Italian glass.
A full tour inside The Cinderella Castle Suite at Walt Disney World by Orlando My Way
Mosaic Craftsmanship
That, too, in more than 500 colors. It took a solid 22 months to come up with these stunning works of art, with a group of six artists who were headed by Hanns-Joachim Scharff. Some of the tiles even have sterling silver and 14k gold in them.
Cinderella Castle Mosaic: The Story of Cinderella by The Disneyland Geek
Global Disney Castles
It's pretty interesting that only two Disney parks in the world have Cinderella Castle: Walt Disney World in Florida and Tokyo Disneyland. A lot of people think that every Disney park has this famous castle, but apparently, each one has its own unique layout.
fortherock, CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
Symbol Of Trans-Pacific Disney Connection
The fact that Cinderella Castle only shows up in these two parks makes it even more special and forms a special connection between Disney fans in America and Japan. This limited presence truly helps keep the castle as an iconic symbol of Disney.
Oyvind Holmstad, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Walt's Original Suite Plans
Cinderella Castle might look like a fairy tale, but it has a pretty bittersweet backstory. The castle's royal suite was initially designed for Walt Disney and his family's exclusive use, along with visiting Disney executives. Sadly, Walt passed away in 1966.
Agence de presse Meurisse, Wikimedia Commons
Unused For 40 Years
It happened just a few years before Disney World opened, leaving the suite incomplete and sitting unused. For a long time, almost 40 years, the space was used for other purposes instead of the wonderful retreat it was meant to be.
Benoît Prieur, CC0, Wikimedia Commons
Early Castle Uses
Most people would never guess that the castle used to be filled with ringing phones. Before it got its grand makeover, some parts of the castle actually served practical purposes, like a call center and even a dressing room for cast members.
traveljunction, CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
Dream Suite Creation
In July 2005, Disney shared plans to turn the unfinished spot inside Cinderella Castle into the Cinderella Castle Suite. It was a swanky 650-square-foot "royal bedchamber" that could fit up to six guests. They finished the suite and made it all fancy in 2005.
we had a sleepover in the CASTLE at WALT DISNEY WORLD 🏰 by Emily Canham
Exclusive Access
From 2007 to 2009, some lucky folks who won the "Disney Dreams Giveaway" got to enjoy a truly lovely night in the Castle Suite as part of the Year of a Million Dreams celebration. But there's a cool part awaiting.
we had a sleepover in the CASTLE at WALT DISNEY WORLD 🏰 by Emily Canham
VIPs Only
This suite is kind of a big deal because you can’t book it like a regular hotel room. The only way to experience this stay is if you win a special invite as a VIP guest of the Walt Disney Company or win a contest.
Inside Disney's invitation-only Cinderella Castle suite by Good Morning America
Entering The Royal Suite
Getting to the suite is like stepping into a Disney fairy tale. Those lucky enough to stay there ride up an elevator that looks just like Cinderella's pumpkin carriage. It gets activated using a Key to the World card. Such a fun touch, indeed.
A full tour inside The Cinderella Castle Suite at Walt Disney World by Orlando My Way
Unparalleled Vantage Point
Located four stories above the Magic Kingdom, this exclusive retreat offers a view of the park that few have ever experienced. It is said that the attention to detail in just reaching the suite hints at the amazing experience that awaits inside.
Alfred A. Si, Wikimedia Commons
Inside The Castle Suite
Luxury meets fairy tale in every corner of this exclusive stay. With two comfy queen-sized beds covered in fluffy feather comforters, the suite is all about making guests feel like kings and queens. The custom mosaic floors tell the Cinderella story right under your feet.
A full tour inside The Cinderella Castle Suite at Walt Disney World by Orlando My Way
It's Always 11:59
But there is something even more intriguing. The grandfather clock. It is stuck forever at 11:59 pm, making sure your experience doesn’t turn into a pumpkin like Cinderella’s coach. Plus, the room has some neat touches, like a glass slipper and portraits.
A full tour inside The Cinderella Castle Suite at Walt Disney World by Orlando My Way
Dining With Royalty
Cinderella's Royal Table is one of the coolest dining experiences at the castle, and you don’t need a special invite to enjoy it. Just score a lucky reservation, and you will be good to go. They serve delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner inside the stunning dining hall.
Grand Entrance To The Royal Banquet
The restaurant is located inside Cinderella Castle in the Magic Kingdom. To get there, check-in is located towards the back of the castle near Fantasyland. Once checked in, you'll literally be announced into the grand hall.
Opulent Dining Journey
You must climb a spiral staircase to reach the banquet area, which is preceded by stained glass. Stained glass overlooking Fantasyland, medieval flags, and towering archways are all highlights of the dining hall. You are even called princes and princesses or lords and ladies during the meal.
Is Disney World's Cinderella's Royal Table Worth It? by DFBGuide
Hurricane-Proof Design
Deep within its exterior lies an engineering marvel that few guests ever consider. The entire castle was built to withstand punishing winds of up to 110 to 125 miles per hour (category 3 hurricane). This was an essential characteristic during Florida's hurricane season.
Is Disney World's Cinderella's Royal Table Worth It? by DFBGuide
Castle Perspective Tricks
The castle employs forced perspective techniques. The first floor is built to scale, but the second-story windows and blocks are only 5/8th the size of those on the first floor. As your eyes move up the castle, the top spire is approximately half the size it appears to be.
Is Disney World's Cinderella's Royal Table Worth It? by DFBGuide
Disney Family Heraldry
Look closely inside Cinderella's Royal Table, and you'll discover a fascinating tribute to Disney's history. Cinderella's Royal Table is decorated with more than 40 coats of arms. Each of these represents individuals who played a great role in the layout and construction of Walt Disney World.
Is Disney World's Cinderella's Royal Table Worth It? by DFBGuide
Honoring Disney Legends
These family seals represent people like Roger Broggie Sr, Marc Davis, Roy O. Disney, John Hench, Diane Disney Miller, Mr. Nunis, and Marty Sklar. Roger Edward Broggie Sr, who passed away in 1991, was an American mechanical engineer and the first Disney Imaginee.
Towpilot, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons
Castle Weddings
Dreams of a fairy tale wedding can indeed come true at the East Plaza Garden, located just before the Cinderella Castle at Walt Disney World. This famous garden offers a picturesque backdrop. However, the starting cost for a wedding ceremony here is approximately $30,000.
Disney Wishes Wedding: Magic Kingdom's East Plaza Garden by Disney Weddings
Wedding Amenities
This includes various amenities such as upgraded chairs, a sound system, a greenery package, a string trio, and Main Street Vehicles for the wedding party. Weddings typically take place during park operating hours, with the function estimated to begin around 9:00 am.
Disney Wishes Wedding: Magic Kingdom's East Plaza Garden by Disney Weddings
Nightly Castle Traditions
Every evening, even after the last guest leaves, Cinderella Castle participates in a touching Disney tradition. Yes, the goodnight kiss. About 30 minutes after the park closing, the castle receives its special farewell with distinctive lighting, accompanied by Roy Disney's original dedication speech.
Veryhuman, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons
Tinker Bell Makes An Appearance
Oh, and not to forget the classic “When You Wish Upon a Star”. Before this nightly goodbye, another mystical performance takes place. Tinker Bell's flight. Since her first castle flight on July 4, 1985, Tinker Bell has been soaring from the castle at 15 miles per hour.
Historical Clock Details
Time tells a unique story about this castle’s clock face, and here’s how. The number "4" appears as "IIII" instead of the more common "IV". Now, this isn't a mistake. It's actually a deliberate choice that reflects historical accuracy.
A full tour inside The Cinderella Castle Suite at Walt Disney World by Orlando My Way
The Reason
During the Colonial Period, "IIII" was the standard way to represent the number four on clock faces. This attention to detail extends beyond the castle. You'll find the same accuracy in the original Cinderella film at EPCOT's American Adventure pavilion.
Sam Howzit, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
Memorable Transformations
Throughout its history, Cinderella Castle has undergone some remarkable transformations that have delighted visitors. In 1996, the castle was famously turned into a huge pink birthday cake to celebrate the park's 25th anniversary, and this sweet makeover lasted from October 1, 1996, to January 31, 1998.
Playful Castle Alterations
In a different twist, 2004 saw the castle playfully "vandalized" with toilet paper and a cheeky sign reading "Stitch is King!" to promote the opening of Stitch's Great Escape. Also, in April 2020, the castle was illuminated in blue as a tribute to COVID-19 healthcare workers.
Theme Park Tourist, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
Height Record Transfer
For decades, Cinderella Castle at Walt Disney World held the title of the tallest Disney castle in the world, standing at 189 feet. However, this changed in 2016 with the opening of Shanghai Disneyland, which features the Enchanted Storybook Castle, measuring 197 feet tall.
Riku Lu, CC0, Wikimedia Commons
50th Anniversary Decoration
Walt Disney World celebrated its 50th anniversary, called "The World's Most Magical Celebration," which started on October 1, 2021. As part of the celebration, the Cinderella Castle received a makeover with rose gold paint, gold bunting, golden ribbons, and royal blue jewels.
EARidescent Transformation
A 50th-anniversary crest was added to welcome guests to the festivities. These embellishments were part of an "EARidescent" transformation for the 18-month celebration. The decor and lights uplifted the parks, with the Tower of Terror, Spaceship Earth, and the Tree of Life becoming "Beacons of Magic".
Katie Rommel-Esham, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Castle’s Primary Inspiration
So, Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany is seen as the main inspiration for Disney's famous castle designs, especially Cinderella Castle and Sleeping Beauty Castle. The lead designer, Herbert Ryman, pulled ideas from different places to come up with these enchanting structures.
Thomas Wolf, www.foto-tw.de, CC BY-SA 3.0 DE, Wikimedia Commons
Other Palaces As Inspiration
Built by "Mad King" Ludwig II in the 19th century, the Neuschwanstein Castle features romantic architecture with crenelated towers and Alpine scenery. Besides, the grand French palaces of Versailles and Fontainebleau contributed elements of opulence and grandeur to the layout.
Unknown Author, Wikimedia Commons
The Partners Statue Addition
The iconic "Partners" statue, depicting Walt Disney holding hands with Mickey Mouse, was not part of Cinderella Castle's original design or opening day experience. This beloved bronze sculpture was first revealed at Disneyland on November 18, 1993, to commemorate Mickey Mouse's 65th birthday.
Steven Miller, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons
The Partners Statue Addition (Cont.)
A replica of the statue was later installed in Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom in June 1995. It was designed and sculpted by former Disney animator and Imagineer Blaine Gibson, Today, this is one of the most photographed and emotionally resonant elements of the area.
The Partners Statue: Secrets and History Revealed!!! by Disfarers
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