The mansion was constructed without formal architectural blueprints, with Father Francolon supervising the design as the building progressed.
The castle served as a sanitarium for priests and later became an apartment complex before being acquired for preservation.
Many interior walls were finished with unique materials like burlap and plaster to accommodate the owner's aesthetic preferences.
The structure contains a 'priest hole' or secret compartment, a nod to traditional European manor design.
The building's construction was documented to have taken approximately three years to complete in the late 19th century.
The property is rumored by some locals to have paranormal activity, though it is primarily managed as a historical archive.
Miramont Castle is a 14,000-square-foot Victorian mansion built in 1895 for Father Jean Baptiste Francolon. The structure features a unique architectural blend, including Byzantine, Gothic, and Moorish influences, constructed primarily from stone and wood. It was originally built as a private residence and a sanitarium for Catholic clergy. Today, the museum showcases forty-two rooms, including period-specific Victorian exhibits, a doll museum, and military history displays. The site operates as a non-profit museum focused on preserving local history of the Pikes Peak region. Visitors can access multiple floors of the castle, which is maintained by the Manitou Springs Historical Society. The onsite Queen’s Parlour Tea Room serves traditional English-style tea services within the historic dining rooms. The interior retains many original architectural details, including hand-carved fireplaces and stained-glass windows.
The view of the castle exterior from the lower garden path captures the complex roofline and stonework.
Book your tea service reservation well in advance, as the Queen's Parlour fills up quickly.
Wear comfortable, flat walking shoes, as the castle has several levels connected by original, uneven staircases.
Allow time to browse the gift shop, which stocks local history books and unique Victorian-era themed souvenirs.
Do not attempt to visit without a reservation if you intend to dine in the Tea Room, as walk-ins are rarely accommodated.
Closed on Mondays; occasionally closed for private events or seasonal holidays.
Maintain a quiet demeanor inside the historical rooms; do not touch fragile artifacts or displays.
