The project was begun on May 1, 1984 and sense of completeness was felt about the concrete portion of the sculpture (exterior) in the summer of 1988. The materials used in the exterior are split-face concrete block, steel reinforcement rod, and poured concrete. All of the masonry work was done by two individuals working together without the aid of laborers, helpers, elevation drawings, or models... "The building seemed to exert its own insistent will." Engineering data was employed to ensure structural integrity. It is over 50 feet in height, and the weight of the building is conservatively estimated at more than 7 million pounds. The building was never intended to be a residence, a commercial building, nor a tourist attraction. It was created as an expression of art.
The interior took an additional 3 years to complete (1988-1991). It was fashioned by a third individual (a woodworker). It contains primarily cypress wood and some old southern heart-pine. The interior has eight different examples of staircases in addition to an altar, a pulpit, a Bishop's chair, a choir loft, benches or pews; and incorporates spiritual and historic related symbolism throughout. There is no glass in any of the 88 window openings; therefore, the interior is open to the elements.
It is interesting to note that this structure is located on the same latitude as the Great Pyramids in Egypt (30° North Latitude). The building also received an award from The American Institute of Architects in 1992 for “the creation of a new landmark” in the United States. The Castle is privately owned. The Castle has no formal connection with any group or organization.
THE CASTLE DOES NOT HAVE HANDICAP ACCESS.
CASTLE OTTTIS WAS CREATED TO DESIGNATE A PLACE OF PEACE UPON THIS EARTH.
Woodwork - Lee Carpenter
Castle Design - Rusty
Abbey Design - Bishop Robert J. Baker
Blacksmith - Jason Pedcock
Preferred Wedding Photographer
Lena Christine
lenachristine.com
Preferred Wedding Officiant
Kelly Guarino
forlovenotary.com
Preferred Harpist
Rev. William Reister
celestialstringsharpist.com
Preferred Violinist
Allison Marshall
stringtheorymusicjax.com
Preferred Wedding Cake Bakery
Tina Kay's Cakes & Events
tinakays.com
All group and individual ceremonies/tours can be arranged
through the Contact page.
(72 hour advance notice required.)
Google Maps Link
MAILING ADDRESS ONLY:
Castle Otttis
P. O. Box 1754
St. Augustine, Florida 32085
All rights of photographs and images © 2005 Castle Otttis