Tovrea Castle at Carraro Heights is a historic landmark located in Phoenix, Arizona, United States. It is also commonly known as Tovrea Castle or the Carraro Castle. The castle was built by Alessio Carraro, an Italian immigrant, in the 1920s.
The castle itself is a unique and distinctive structure, designed in a combination of architectural styles, including Italianate, Spanish Revival, and Craftsman influences. It is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens, featuring various types of cacti and desert plants.
Tovrea Castle has a fascinating history and has been through different ownerships and uses over the years. It was originally envisioned as part of a resort development project, but due to financial difficulties, the plans were never fully realized.
In the 1930s, the property was purchased by Edward Tovrea, a prominent local businessman, who used it for his meatpacking business. After his death, the castle and its surroundings were left vacant and fell into disrepair.
In the 1990s, the City of Phoenix acquired the property with the intention of preserving and restoring it. Since then, extensive efforts have been made to restore the castle to its former glory, and the surrounding gardens have been revitalized.
Today, Tovrea Castle at Carraro Heights is a popular tourist attraction in Phoenix. Guided tours are available to visitors who can explore the castle’s interior, learn about its history, and enjoy the picturesque gardens. It is a unique landmark that offers a glimpse into the rich architectural heritage of the area.