When most people think of Arizona, they associate the Grand Canyon state with Spanish and Old World-style architecture, rather than Italian castles. This may be the reason why the Tovrea Castle stands out amidst the pueblos, saloons, and other structures that dominate the list of historical structures throughout the state. The Tovrea Castle stands today as a city landmark in Phoenix, AZ; those traveling on Loop 202 and other local roads are often greeted by the sight of this unique “Wedding Cake” against the backdrop of this area’s more familiar desert scenery.
The Story Behind Tovrea Castle
Tovrea Castle was built by Alessio Carraro, an Italian immigrant who intended this unique property to become the centerpiece of a thriving development with the name of Carraro Heights. However, Carraro quickly either lost interest in developing the 277 acres around the castle or became disillusioned by the challenges of desert development, and sold the castle and its immediate surroundings to local Phoenix entrepreneur Edward A. Tovrea. Despite the fact that Carraro was the castle’s builder and original owner, Tovrea’s name has been associated with the property ever since he purchased it.
The Design of Tovrea Castle
The Tovrea Castle was built over the course of 13 months, with construction lasting from December of 1929 until January of 1931. Tovrea Castle was built using local wood and stucco, but designed in the rococo style of architecture that Carraro had seen in his homeland of Italy. In addition to the castle itself, the Phoenix city park that encompasses the structure also includes a large garden featuring more than 5,000 individual cacti and several species of local vegetation and desert wildflowers.
The Tovrea Castle is just one of the many famous Phoenix landmarks that Xcel Delivery Services drivers pass on the roads of Southern Arizona. You can find out more about our same-day delivery services, cross docking services, and medical delivery solutions when you visit our website or call us at (520) 408-7200 or toll-free at (888) 743-0067.
