CORAL CASTLECORAL CASTLE1,100 tons of coral rock, carved single-handedly by one man over 28 years. Step inside one of the world’s most mysterious monuments — often called America’s Stonehenge.
Born in Latvia in 1887, Edward Leedskalnin was left heartbroken when his “Sweet Sixteen” called off their engagement. He came to South Florida and, standing just 5’6” and about 120 pounds, began quarrying and carving coral rock — entirely by himself.
He worked alone, mostly at night, using only hand tools and simple block-and-tackle. He even moved his creations ten miles to their present home — and never fully revealed how. He carved until his death in 1951.
Read Ed’s full story →Every piece was cut, moved, and set by a single pair of hands — from a nine-ton gate to a telescope aimed at the North Star.
A revolving gate so balanced it once turned with a single push.
A stone tower aligned precisely to the North Star.
The only coral sundial that also tracks the seasons.
A giant heart-shaped coral valentine.
Crescent moons with Mars and Saturn in stone.
Coral thrones for a king, queen, and rivals.
Chairs of solid rock that actually rock.
A ~28-ton monolith taller than the Great Upright at Stonehenge.
For a century, engineers and visitors have asked the same question. Ed left only hints.
Ed credited simple physics — tripods, chain-falls, and a deep understanding of balance.
He published booklets on “magnetic current” and hinted at forces he never named.
He claimed to know how the ancient builders raised and set enormous stones.
When the famous nine-ton gate was repaired in 1984, workers found its secret: a hand-bored hole and an old truck bearing let it pivot with a touch. Ed’s other methods remain his own.
Coral Castle is a living lesson in history, engineering, geology, and the power of determination. Students explore real questions about physics and simple machines — while standing inside a genuine wonder.
Guided and self-guided group tours make planning easy for classes of every age. It may just be the highlight of the year.
Book a field trip →
28655 S. Dixie Highway
Homestead, FL 33033
(305) 248-6345
Open daily from 9:00 AM. Guided and audio tours available throughout the day.
Hours & admission →
Browse the gift shop for coral keepsakes and science gifts, and grab a bite at the Coral Castle Café.
Gift shop & café →