A Look at the Heart of Disney Parks “We Call It Imagineering: Building Castles”
Ever wondered how the stunning castles at Disney parks around the world came to be? Today’s episode of “We Call It Imagineering” pulls back the curtain, offering a glimpse into the artistry and innovation that bring these iconic structures to life. Beyond just beautiful landmarks, these castles are the symbols of storytelling at the heart of the Disney experience.
There is nothing like walking into the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World, going under the Walt Disney Railroad, heading towards either The Emporium or Main Street Confectionery, and turning the corner onto Main Street USA, and the iconic Cinderella Castle, in all her glory and wonder, sits waiting for you. The feeling of your breath catching and a nostalgic tear forming in the corner of your eye as you see one of the most famous landmarks in the world.
Here’s a breakdown of the fascinating history and secrets behind some of the world’s most recognizable castles.
The Original Dream: Sleeping Beauty Castle
The magic began at Disneyland Resort with the 77-foot Sleeping Beauty Castle. Modeled after European medieval castles, it opened its gates 70 years ago. But why Sleeping Beauty and not Snow White, Disney’s first princess? Former Imagineer Tom Morris revealed that the castle was designed to help promote the Sleeping Beauty film, which was in production at the time. This strategic decision by Walt Disney himself linked the park’s centerpiece to a new animated feature, a trend that would continue for years to come.
A Tale of Two Cinderellas
The castles at Walt Disney World and Tokyo Disneyland both celebrate Cinderella, but with unique touches.
At Magic Kingdom, Cinderella Castle stands at a massive 189 feet. Its design blends French Renaissance and Gothic architecture, creating a grand, fortress-like feel. Over the years, its color palette has evolved from a cool gray to warmer tones, designed to catch the final rays of Florida sunlight. This castle was also the first to feature a permanent stage, making it a hub for entertainment. At night, it becomes a canvas for projection shows, turning the building into a dynamic screen for spectacular visual storytelling.
Meanwhile, the Cinderella Castle at Tokyo Disneyland was the first international castle designed by Imagineers. It was chosen to honor Cinderella because her kindness and strong work ethic resonated deeply with the culture in Japan.
Fairytale Touches in Paris
The Sleeping Beauty Castle in Disneyland Paris is a true storybook icon. Built on a hillside, its unique, slender look was designed to feel like an extension of the building’s architecture. Restored by the same artisans who worked on Paris’s Notre-Dame Cathedral, this castle is a testament to meticulous craftsmanship.
Guests can find nods to the classic film everywhere, from the square-shaped trees inspired by artist Eyvind Earle’s style to the stained-glass windows inside. But perhaps the biggest surprise is La Tanière du Dragon, a dragon’s lair hidden beneath the castle. This 79-foot-long animatronic dragon is often heard snoring—until brave guests get too close.
A New Chapter in Hong Kong and Shanghai
In 2020, Hong Kong Disneyland introduced the Castle of Magical Dreams, a groundbreaking design that reimagined its original Sleeping Beauty Castle. This new icon is a tribute to 13 Disney Princesses and Queens, featuring architectural inspirations from Europe, China, and Southeast Asia. Look closely at the spires and you’ll spot details like lotus blossoms near a statue of Mushu and an icy blue roof representing the story of Anna and Elsa.
The Enchanted Storybook Castle at Shanghai Disney Resort is the largest and most complex of all. Its goal was to blend classic Disney stories with a distinctly Chinese identity. Inside, it houses attractions, shops, and restaurants, along with murals of four princesses—Rapunzel, Tiana, Merida, and Anna and Elsa—representing the four seasons. A hand-carved piece of jade, a stone with great cultural significance in China, is also featured on the side of the castle, serving as a background for character meet and greets.
The Future of Disney’s Icons
So, what’s next for Disney’s castles? Imagineers are always looking forward. In the coming years, a new park in Abu Dhabi will get its own icon, with Imagineers considering how the local environment might shape its design, possibly incorporating water.
For the first time, a castle is also coming to the sea. The newest Disney Cruise Line ship, the Disney Adventure, will feature a new castle-inspired design that celebrates nature with subtle nods to princesses like Moana and Rapunzel.
These castles are more than just buildings; they are a canvas for imagination, a symbol of dreams, and a beacon for generations of Disney fans.
A Look at the Heart of Disney Parks “We Call It Imagineering: Building Castles”
