Quigley's Castle: An Ozark Original

Quigley's Castle, often called the "Ozarks' Strangest Dwelling," is a testament to one woman's vision and love of nature. Located a few miles south of Eureka Springs, Arkansas, this historic house museum and garden offers a glimpse into the creative world of Elise Quigley.In 1943, Elise and her husband, Albert, built the home using lumber from their own land. Elise designed the house to bring the outdoors in, incorporating large windows and a unique two-story atrium for tropical plants. The exterior of the house is covered in rocks, crystals, arrowheads, and fossils that Elise collected over her lifetime, a project that took her nearly three years to complete.The interior is equally fascinating, featuring a garden brimming with tropical plants, some of which have grown to the second-story ceiling. Visitors can also see Elise's collections of butterflies, glassware, and other curiosities. The surrounding gardens include over 400 varieties of perennials, rock sculptures, a lily pond, and whimsical creations like "bottle trees" made from old bottles.Quigley's Castle is open to visitors from March through October. It offers a unique and memorable experience for those interested in folk art, unusual architecture, and the beauty of the Ozark landscape.