Top 100 best museums in North Carolina

The Biltmore Estate, located near Asheville in North Carolina, is a property that boasts a mansion built in the Renaissance style. Known as the Biltmore House, this grand structure now serves as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into a bygone era of opulence and grandeur.

The Wright Brothers National Memorial Visitor Center is a significant landmark located in Dare County, North Carolina. It serves as a tourist office, providing visitors with information and guidance about the memorial and its surroundings. The center is an integral part of the Wright Brothers National Memorial, offering insights into the history and significance of the Wright Brothers' achievements.

The Bechtler Museum of Modern Art, located in Charlotte, North Carolina, is a spacious museum dedicated to showcasing mid-20th-century modern art. The museum spans an impressive 36,500 square feet, providing ample space for a variety of exhibitions.

The USS North Carolina (BB-55) was a battleship of the North Carolina class of the United States Navy, leader of its class and the fourth ship to be named in honor of the state of North Carolina. This information is significant as it provides historical context about the ship, which is now a museum and memorial.

The North Carolina Arboretum, also known as El Jardín Botánico de Cape Fear, is a botanical garden and arboretum that spans 434 acres. It is located in Asheville, North Carolina, and is managed by the University of North Carolina. The arboretum is a member of the Botanical Gardens Conservation International and houses the national collection of azaleas from the North American Plant Collections Consortium.

The North Carolina State Capitol, located in Raleigh, served as the seat of the state's legislature until 1888. This historic building housed all of the state's government, making it a significant part of North Carolina's political history. Today, it continues to house the offices of the Governor of North Carolina, adding to its ongoing relevance.

The Billy Graham Library serves as a public museum and library that documents the life and ministry of the renowned Christian evangelist, Billy Graham. It provides an in-depth look into his life, his teachings, and his impact on the world. Visitors can explore the various exhibits and collections that showcase his life's work and his contributions to Christianity.

Each of the three North Carolina Aquariums offers a variety of interactive experiences, including dive shows, live animal encounters, and feeding programs. These activities provide visitors with the opportunity to learn about aquatic life in an engaging and hands-on way.

The Moses H. Cone Memorial Park, also known as Cone Park, is a country estate located in Blowing Rock, North Carolina. It is situated on the Blue Ridge Parkway between mileposts 292 and 295, with the main access point at milepost 294. This park is a tribute to Moses H. Cone and is managed by the National Park Service.

The Oconaluftee Indian Village, located in Cherokee, North Carolina, is a replica of an 18th-century eastern Cherokee community. Founded in 1952, the village is situated along the scenic Oconaluftee River, providing visitors with a glimpse into the past of the Cherokee people.

The Folk Art Center, situated at milepost 382 on the Blue Ridge Parkway near Asheville, North Carolina, is a museum dedicated to Appalachian arts and crafts. This location is a hub for the appreciation and understanding of the rich artistic traditions of the Appalachian region.

The Duke Lemur Center, located at Duke University in Durham, North Carolina, is an 85-acre sanctuary for rare and endangered strepsirrhine primates. It holds the distinction of being the largest sanctuary for these primates in the world.

Don't judge a book by its cover! This area is full of old warehouses that are being turned into an edgy artsy enclave.

The Asheville Art Museum, located in Western North Carolina, is a nonprofit visual art organization. It holds the prestigious accreditation from the American Alliance of Museums, which is a testament to its high standards and quality. The museum is dedicated to the exhibition and interpretation of 20th and 21st century American art, with a special focus on work significant to the cultural heritage of Western North Carolina.

The North Carolina Museum of Art, which was established in 1947, is situated in Raleigh. The museum officially opened its doors to the public on April 6, 1956. This historical establishment has been a significant part of the city's cultural scene for many decades.

Fort Raleigh National Historic Site is a significant location as it preserves the site of Roanoke Colony, which was the first English settlement in the present-day United States. This site was established in 1587 and was backed by entrepreneurs led by Englishman Sir Walter Raleigh. However, the colony failed between 1587 and 1590 due to the failure of supply ships to arrive on time. When the site was revisited, it was found to be abandoned with no survivors. The fate of this 'Lost Colony' remains a celebrated mystery, although it is widely believed that the settlers likely assimilated into local indigenous tribes.

Forte Dobbs is a historical site that dates back to the 18th century. It is located in the Yadkin – Pee Dee River Basin region, in the province of North Carolina, near what is now known as Statesville, in Iredell County. This fort played a significant role in defending the frontier during and after the French and Indian wars.

The Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site is a significant location in Flat Rock, Henderson County, North Carolina. This site is recognized for its historical importance and is a key destination for those interested in American literature and history.

Black Mountain College, established in 1933 near Asheville, North Carolina, was a unique institution that placed the study of art at the heart of education. This innovative approach was a novelty in the United States at the time, making the college a significant landmark in the history of American education and art.

The Airborne & Special Operations Museum (ASOM) is a significant part of the U.S Army Museum Enterprise. Its primary mission is to preserve and educate the public about the history of the Special Operations and Airborne community. Additionally, it provides a broader perspective on U.S military history. This museum is a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about these aspects of American history.

The North Carolina Botanical Garden (NCBG) is a botanical garden situated in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. It is a part of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. The garden is dedicated to promoting the understanding, appreciation, and conservation of plants in gardens and natural areas, and fostering a sustainable relationship between people and nature.

The Currituck Beach Lighthouse is a significant landmark located on the Outer Banks in Corolla, North Carolina. It is situated within the Historic Corolla Park, making it a part of a larger historical and recreational area. The lighthouse offers a unique experience for visitors, with its unpainted brick facade standing out among its counterparts.

The Oak Island Lighthouse is an active lighthouse situated near the mouth of the Cape Fear River at Caswell Beach in Brunswick County, North Carolina. It is a significant historical site, having been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since April 5, 2007. The lighthouse replaced the Cape Fear Lighthouse, a steel-framed structure on Bald Head Island, in May 1958.

Fort Macon State Park is a significant historical site located in Carteret County, North Carolina. The park, which opened its doors to the public in 1936, is situated near the town of Atlantic Beach. It offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore a piece of American history while enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding area.

Mount Mitchell State Park, located in Yancey County, North Carolina, spans an impressive 4,789 acres. This park holds historical significance as it was established in 1915, making it the first state park in North Carolina. Its establishment also led to the creation of the North Carolina State Parks System.

The North Carolina Zoo is strategically located approximately 100 kilometers west of Raleigh and 100 kilometers northeast of Charlotte. This central location in the state makes it easily accessible for visitors from both cities and beyond.

The Bodie Island Lighthouse that stands today is the third iteration of the lighthouse in this location on the Outer Banks in North Carolina. It was constructed in 1872, replacing two previous lighthouses that had been built and subsequently abandoned or destroyed. This historical context adds to the rich narrative of the lighthouse and its significance in the region.

The Sarah P. Duke Gardens are a significant part of Duke University in Durham, North Carolina. Covering approximately 55 acres, these gardens offer a vast expanse of landscaped and wooded areas for visitors to explore. The gardens provide a serene environment that contrasts with the bustling university environment, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and nature appreciation.

The Guilford Courthouse National Military Park is a significant historical site located at 2332 New Garden Road in Greensboro, Guilford County, North Carolina. The park commemorates the Battle of Guilford Court House, which took place on March 15, 1781. This battle was a pivotal event in the American Revolutionary War, and despite the British winning the battle, the casualties they suffered contributed to their surrender at Yorktown seven months later.

Stone Mountain State Park, located in Alleghany County and Wilkes County, North Carolina, spans an impressive 14,353 acres. This vast expanse of natural beauty offers a unique opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the great outdoors and experience the diverse flora and fauna of the region.

Discovery Place Science is a science and technology museum situated in Uptown, Charlotte, North Carolina. It offers a variety of exhibits and interactive displays that cater to all ages, making it a great destination for families, school groups, or anyone with a curiosity for science and technology.

The Sullenberger Aviation Museum, previously known as the Carolinas Aviation Museum, is situated on the premises of Charlotte Douglas International Airport in Charlotte, North Carolina. This unique location makes it one of the few aviation museums located at a major hub airport. The museum was founded in 1992 and has since amassed a collection of over 50 static aircraft and numerous smaller historic items related to aviation in North Carolina and South Carolina.

The Mint Museum is a cultural institution in Charlotte, North Carolina, consisting of two museums: The Mint Museum Randolph and Mint Museum Uptown. Together, these two locations house hundreds of collections that showcase art and design from around the world. Visitors can explore a wide range of exhibits, from ancient artifacts to contemporary works, providing a comprehensive view of global art and design history.

The North Carolina Museum of History, situated in downtown Raleigh, is a significant historical institution that is affiliated with the Smithsonian Affiliations program. This affiliation allows the museum to share resources and collaborate with the Smithsonian Institution, enhancing the museum's offerings and providing visitors with a rich and diverse experience.

Blandwood Mansion, located at 447 West Washington Street in Greensboro, North Carolina, is a historic house museum. This location is steeped in history and offers a unique glimpse into the past. Visitors can explore the mansion and learn about its rich history, from its original construction as a four-room farmhouse in 1795 to its transformation into an Italian Villa Style architecture under the ownership of two-term North Carolina governor John Motley Morehead.

The Museum of Life and Science, which was previously known as the North Carolina Museum of Life and Science and the NC Children's Museum, is a large science museum located in Durham, North Carolina. The museum spans an impressive 84 acres and offers a variety of exhibits and activities for visitors of all ages.

The Morehead Planetarium and Science Center, situated on the campus of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, is one of the oldest and largest planetariums in the United States. It has a rich history and has welcomed over seven million visitors since its opening in 1949. The planetarium was used to train astronauts from the Gemini and Apollo programs in celestial navigation, making it a significant site in the history of space exploration.

The Tar Heels have a successful track record, having won six NCAA championships, 17 Atlantic Coast Conference titles, and 29 regular Atlantic Coast Conference seasons. These achievements are a testament to the team's skill and dedication.

Coker Arboretum is a significant part of the North Carolina Botanical Garden, situated on the campus of the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. This location offers a unique blend of academia and nature, providing a serene environment for visitors to explore and learn about various plant species.

The Asheville Botanical Gardens is a non-profit botanical garden and arboretum situated in Asheville, North Carolina. It spans an area of 4 hectares or 10 acres, providing ample space for visitors to explore and enjoy the diverse plant life. The gardens are a part of the Botanic Gardens Conservation International, with the herbarium code ASHEV.

Carolina Tiger Rescue, located in Pittsboro, North Carolina, is a nonprofit sanctuary dedicated to the rescue and protection of wildcats. The sanctuary is home to a variety of rescued animals including tigers, lions, cougars, leopards, caracals, servals, bobcats, and other wild species. The organization is committed to the preservation and protection of these animals, providing them with a safe and nurturing environment.

Morrow Mountain State Park, located in Stanly County, North Carolina, is a vast expanse of 5,881 acres nestled within the Uwharrie Mountains. Morrow Mountain, one of the highest peaks in the Uwharrie Mountains of central North Carolina, is a prominent feature of the park. The park offers a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the Uwharrie Mountains and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities.

Airlie Gardens, located in Wilmington, North Carolina, spans across 67 acres of lush, naturalistic Southern garden. The garden was originally created in 1886 as a private haven for the Pembroke Jones family. The name 'Airlie' was inspired by the Jones' family home in Scotland. The garden is home to thousands of azaleas, camellias, magnolias, palms, and wisteria, offering a picturesque landscape for visitors to explore.

The Town Creek Indian Mound is a significant archaeological site located near Mount Gilead in Montgomery County, North Carolina. This prehistoric site was home to the Pee Dee, a South Appalachian Mississippian culture people, who thrived in the region from as early as 980 CE. The site features a platform mound, a surrounding village, and a wooden defensive palisade, all of which offer a glimpse into the lives of the Pee Dee people.

The JC Raulston Arboretum, a 10-acre arboretum and botanical garden, is located in Raleigh, North Carolina. It is administered by North Carolina State University. This vast space is home to a variety of plant species and offers a serene environment for visitors.

Located in the heart of downtown Raleigh, North Carolina, in the Moore Square Historic District, Marbles Kids Museum is a nonprofit children's museum. This museum is easily accessible and offers a unique experience for children, making it an ideal destination for families visiting the area.

The City of Raleigh Museum, a local history museum, is situated in the historic Briggs Hardware Building on Fayetteville Street in downtown Raleigh, North Carolina. This location not only provides a rich historical context but also offers easy access due to its central location in the city.

The Joel Lane House, also known as Wakefield, is a significant historical site in Raleigh, North Carolina. Constructed in 1769, the house has been meticulously restored and now serves as a museum. Visitors can step back in time and explore the oldest dwelling in Wake County, gaining a unique insight into the region's history.

Yates Mill, a fully restored gristmill from around 1756, is located just five miles south of downtown Raleigh, North Carolina. This historic mill is the main attraction of the Historic Yates Mill County Park, situated in the heart of Wake County. The mill's rich history and its picturesque location make it a fascinating destination for visitors interested in history, architecture, and nature.

The Reynolda House Museum of American Art is renowned for its extensive collection of American art, which spans from the colonial period to the present day. This collection provides a comprehensive overview of the evolution of American art, making it a fascinating destination for art enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

The CSS Neuse was a significant vessel during the American Civil War, serving as a steam-powered ironclad ram for the Confederate States Navy. To avoid capture by the rapidly advancing Union Army forces, the ship was scuttled in the Neuse River. This historical event adds a layer of intrigue and historical significance to the vessel, making it an interesting point of interest for visitors.

The Nasher Museum of Art, previously known as the Duke University Museum of Art, is situated on the campus of Duke University in Durham, North Carolina. This museum is a significant part of the university and offers a rich collection of art for visitors to explore.

The Mordecai House, also known as the Mordecai Plantation or Mordecai Mansion, is a significant historical landmark in Raleigh, North Carolina. Constructed in 1785, it holds the distinction of being the oldest residence in Raleigh that still stands on its original foundation. As a registered historical landmark and museum, it offers visitors a glimpse into the past and the rich history of the area.

In 2001, the museum was relocated to its current location at the intersection of Independence and 17th Streets and was renamed the Cameron Art Museum. The new location allowed for the construction of three exhibition areas, as well as a lecture and reception hall. This expansion has allowed the museum to offer a wider range of exhibits and events to its visitors.

The Imagination Station Science & History Museum is an interactive museum situated in the heart of downtown Wilson, North Carolina at 224 Nash Street SE. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the city, offering a unique blend of science and history through its various exhibits and programs.

Bethabara Historic District is a public park located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. It is home to the surviving buildings and archaeological remains of a small Moravian community that was first settled in 1753. The park offers a unique glimpse into the past, showcasing the rich history and culture of the Moravian community.

The Ackland Art Museum is conveniently located at 101 S. Columbia Street, near the intersection of Franklin Street at the northern edge of the university campus. This central location makes it easily accessible for both locals and tourists alike.

The North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher is dedicated to educating visitors about the waters of the Cape Fear region. Recognized as one of the Best Aquariums in the United States by the Travel Channel, it offers a variety of exhibits and programs that highlight the diverse aquatic life and ecosystems of the region.

The New Hope Valley Railway, located in Bonsal, North Carolina, is a heritage railroad operated by the North Carolina Railway Museum, Inc. This organization is an all-volunteer, nonprofit, and tax-exempt educational and historical entity. The railway serves as a testament to the rich history of rail transport in the region and offers a unique experience for visitors.

Ayr Mount is a historic plantation house situated to the east of Hillsborough, in Orange County, North Carolina. This Federal style house is a significant part of the United States' architectural heritage and offers a glimpse into the country's past.

Vollis Simpson, an American 'outsider' folk artist, is renowned for his large kinetic sculptures, known as 'whirligigs'. These unique pieces of art were crafted from salvaged metal, showcasing Simpson's creativity and resourcefulness. Visitors to the Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park can witness these impressive structures firsthand, gaining insight into the artist's innovative approach to art.

The Cape Fear Botanical Garden, located in Fayetteville, North Carolina, is a sprawling 32-hectare botanical garden and arboretum. It is a place where visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of nature, explore diverse plant species, and enjoy a peaceful environment.

Reynolda Gardens is a large botanical garden spanning 129 acres, with approximately 4 acres dedicated to formal gardens. The gardens are conveniently located next to Reynolda Road, adjacent to the Reynolda campus of Wake Forest University and the Reynolda House in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. This location makes it easily accessible for visitors.

One of the last major battles of the American Civil War took place at Fort Fisher. This historical event is a testament to the fort's strategic importance and the role it played in the conflict between the North and the South. Visitors can learn about the battle and its impact on the war's outcome.

Bentonville Battlefield is a significant historic site located at 5466 Harper House Road in Johnston County, North Carolina. It is managed by the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. The site is known for being the location of the 1865 Battle of Bentonville, which took place during the final days of the American Civil War.

The Thomas Wolfe House, also known as the Thomas Wolfe Memorial, is a state historic site, historic house, and museum. It is located at 52 North Market Street in downtown Asheville, North Carolina. This location is significant as it was the boyhood home of the American author Thomas Wolfe. The house was built in 1883 and is influenced by Queen Anne style architecture. It was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1971 due to its association with Wolfe.

The Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden is a vast botanical garden situated on 380 acres of rolling meadows, woodlands, and lakefront property in Belmont, North Carolina. This expansive garden offers a diverse range of environments for visitors to explore, from manicured gardens to natural woodland trails.

The Barker House, located in Edenton, Chowan County, North Carolina, is a historic home with a rich history dating back to 1782. Over the centuries, the house has been expanded and now showcases a blend of Georgian, Federal, and Greek Revival style design elements. This historic site offers a unique glimpse into the architectural styles of the past and the history of the region.

The Cupola House, located in Edenton, North Carolina, is a historic house museum that dates back to 1756–1758. This makes it the second oldest building in Edenton, offering visitors a glimpse into the architectural and historical past of the region.

The Palmer-Marsh House, located on Main Street south of Carteret Street in Bath, North Carolina, is a historic house museum and National Historic Landmark. This significant site offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing the architectural and historical importance of the region.

The Mineral and Lapidary Museum of Henderson County, located in the heart of Hendersonville's Historic District, is a non-profit institution run by volunteers. Established in 1997, the museum is situated at 400 North Main Street, making it easily accessible for visitors.

The C. Grier Beam Truck Museum, also known as Beam's Shell Service Station and Office, is a historic service station situated at 117 N. Mountain St. in Cherryville, Gaston County, North Carolina. This location is not just a museum but a piece of history, having been built around 1930 by the Shell Oil Company. The building itself is a one-story, rectangular Mission/Spanish Revival style structure, adding to its historic charm.

Hendrick Motorsports, a NASCAR team based in Concord, North Carolina, is led by Rick Hendrick. This team has a rich history in the world of motorsports, making it an interesting destination for tourists who are fans of racing.

The Lucas Mansion, also known as the Hiddenite Center, is a historic home located in Hiddenite, Alexander County, North Carolina. This three-story, Queen Anne style dwelling was built around 1900 and features a two-story wraparound porch. The house was enlarged to its current size by 1928 and is said to have been enlarged twice by raising the existing floor and building a new floor beneath or between the existing floors.

The North Carolina Aviation Museum and Hall of Fame is home to a vast collection of static aircraft, uniforms, memorabilia, and aircraft models. These exhibits are spread across two hangars, providing visitors with a comprehensive look into the history and evolution of aviation. The museum's collection is dynamic, with exhibits changing periodically, ensuring that there's always something new to explore.

The Edwards–Franklin House is a historic plantation house located in Franklin Township, Surry County, North Carolina. This Southern United States property offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing the architectural style and lifestyle of the late 18th century.

The President James K. Polk Historic Site is a museum and historic location situated in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina. It is managed by the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources' Historic Sites division. This site offers a unique opportunity to delve into the history of President James K. Polk and the early 19th century North Carolina.

Somerset Place, located near Creswell in Washington County, North Carolina, is a former plantation that now serves as a State Historic Site. It is situated along the northern shore of Lake Phelps and is under the jurisdiction of the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. This site offers a glimpse into the history of the region and the life on a plantation.

Haywood Hall, also referred to as the Treasurer John Haywood House, is a historic home situated in Raleigh, Wake County, North Carolina. This significant landmark offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing the architectural style and living conditions of the late 18th century. It's an ideal destination for history enthusiasts and those interested in architecture.

The Newbold–White House is a significant historic site located in Hertford, Perquimans County, North Carolina. This house holds a rich history and offers a glimpse into the past, making it an interesting destination for tourists interested in history and architecture.

The Lake Waccamaw Depot is a significant historical site, originally serving as a train station. It is located in Lake Waccamaw, Columbus County, North Carolina. The depot was constructed around the year 1900 by the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad, making it a notable landmark in the region's transportation history.

The Rural Hall Depot is a significant piece of history located in Rural Hall, Forsyth County, North Carolina. Constructed in 1888, it was originally built for the Cape Fear and Yadkin Valley Railway. This historic train station offers a glimpse into the past and the rich history of rail transportation in the region.

The Daniel Boone Native Gardens, situated in Boone, North Carolina, is home to a diverse collection of native plants from the region. The gardens are designed in an informal landscape style, providing a relaxed and natural setting for visitors to explore and enjoy the local flora.

Currently, Kaleideum operates two locations, providing a variety of experiences for visitors. Kaleideum Downtown, formerly known as The Children's Museum of Winston-Salem, and Kaleideum North, previously SciWorks, each offer unique exhibits and programs. This allows visitors to choose the location that best suits their interests or even visit both to get the full Kaleideum experience.

The New Hanover County Arboretum is a spacious 7-acre arboretum situated at 6206 Oleander Drive, Wilmington, North Carolina. This location is easily accessible and offers a vast space for visitors to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of the arboretum.

Hope Plantation, constructed in 1803, is a historic house built in the Palladian mode of the federal style. It is situated on the Carolina Coastal Plain, near Windsor, North Carolina, in the United States. This architectural gem was built by David Stone, a member of the coastal Carolina planter class, who later became the Governor of North Carolina and a United States senator. The manor house is one of the finest examples of Palladian design built in timber, slightly modified by neo-classical elements.

The Bog Garden, located at 1101 Hobbs Road, Greensboro, North Carolina, serves as a nature preserve, botanical garden, and city park. It is open to the public every day and does not require an admission fee.

Historic Oak View, also known as the Williams-Wyatt-Poole Farm, is a significant site that dates back to the 19th century. It is a historic farmstead and national historic district located east of downtown Raleigh, North Carolina. This location offers a unique glimpse into the past, providing visitors with an opportunity to explore a piece of American history.

The Cape Fear Museum of History and Science, located at 814 Market Street in downtown Wilmington, North Carolina, is the oldest history museum in the state, having been founded in 1898. This museum is a testament to the rich history and scientific discoveries of the region, making it a significant destination for those interested in learning more about North Carolina's past.

The City of Raleigh Museum is a local history museum situated in the historic Briggs Hardware Building on Fayetteville Street in downtown Raleigh. This location is not only central but also steeped in history, providing a fitting backdrop for the museum's exhibits and programs.

The North Carolina Transportation Museum, located in Spencer, North Carolina, is a comprehensive collection of automobiles, aircraft, and railway vehicles. This museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the history and evolution of various modes of transportation.

The North Carolina Music Hall of Fame, located in Kannapolis, North Carolina, is a non-profit organization and museum. It was established to honor musicians, composers, and artists with ties to North Carolina who have made a significant impact in the music industry. The museum is a testament to the rich musical heritage of North Carolina and its influence on the global music scene.

The Carolina Museum of the Marine, currently under development, is located in Jacksonville, North Carolina. This city is also home to the Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, adding to the historical and military significance of the area.

The Carson House, located in Marion, North Carolina, is a historic house and museum that holds significant importance in the history of the region. It was once the home of Col. John Carson and served as the McDowell County courthouse when the county was first established in 1842. This makes it a place of interest for those who appreciate history and architecture.