Exploring Earth's Priciest Abandoned Structures
12. Quinlan Castle, Alabama, Birmingham
Location: Birmingham, Alabama
Year Established: 1927
Building Cost: $1.71 million (adjusted for inflation)
Constructed in 1927 at a cost of $1.71 million, Quinlan Castle is a remarkable sight in America, a country that boasts relatively few castles. The land was purchased by Catholic Bishop Quinlan with the vision of establishing the first Catholic church in Birmingham, Alabama.
Quinlan Castle stands out not only for its architectural uniqueness but also for its historical significance within the community, reflecting the aspirations of early 20th-century religious leaders in the region.
Quinlan Castle
When designing Quinlan Castle, architect William Welton drew inspiration from the castles he had observed throughout Europe during World War I. However, the castle faced controversy almost immediately after its construction. In the 1940s, rumors circulated that it was being used as a Nazi stronghold. When Birmingham Police investigated the claims, they found no evidence to support these allegations.
Today, Quinlan Castle remains privately owned but has struggled to overcome its troubled past. It has been vacant since the 1990s, leaving its future uncertain and its once-grand presence shrouded in mystery.
