Disney-style fairytale castle on sale for $60 million

By Adam Wareing via SWNS

This stunning fairytale castle that looks straight out a Disney film has almost doubled in price to a staggering $60 MILLION, as its owner is selling up and building a NEW ONE.

The dream seven-story medieval-themed fortress with turrets and a moat, nestled on 400 acres of land in Woodstock, Connecticut was built by Chris Mark in 2003, reportedly for his princess-loving daughters.

Instead of dropping the price to entice people, estate agent John Pizzi says Chris upped the price by a whopping $25 million after learning from his architect and engineer that to build the castle today would cost a lot more than it did 20 years ago.

The dream property caught attention from social media users after photos emerged of its extravagant structure and furnishings.

Images posted by Randall Realtors Compass to property site Zillow in February show its spire-topped towers scaling 126ft above the stone-walled structure likened to Disney World's Cinderella Castle.

The listing claims its antique furnishings are fit for a king - boasting nine bedrooms and 10 bathrooms that are heated by 12 fireplaces and decorated with wood gathered from around the world.

Estate agent John says "king of the castle" Chris Mark, has decided to move elsewhere and build a new one so - now knowing the incredible property's worth - has increased the price by $25 million.

John says they have had a couple of serious enquiries but admits the huge price can be a stumbling block - though explains that Chris is in no rush to sell as he doesn't need the money for his new project.

Facebook users gushed over the spectacular seven-floor home when a post sharing its listing went viral, with some jokingly questioning if they could take out a loan to become its new king or queen.

John said: "The owner's decided to move and build another castle. He spoke to his architect and engineer and they said the cost today would be about $60million.

"Being the guy he is, he thought 'there's no way I'm selling it for $35 million if it's going to cost $60million,' and that's why it's gone up.

"Most people would like to spend a week there but to spend a lifetime there is another story.

"It's something that was recently built, but it has the antiquity and flavor of being from the old world. It looks like it's from the 1500s. It's fit for a king or queen."

John said more than 100 artisans were flown in to help with the construction, with many coming from Poland, the Czech Republic and Russia.

Since its completion in 2003, the castle has been used for fashion shoots, music videos and even served as the backdrop to movie "One Royal Holiday."

The Zillow listing reads: "Stunning one-of-a-kind property built to amaze and capture the imagination of the individual who relishes outstanding craftsmanship and superior design.

"This majestic castle features a moat, towers rising 126 feet into the sky, 18,777 square feet of delight with nine bedrooms, seven full baths, three half baths, 12 fireplaces, breathtaking entry hall and public spaces that are indeed fit for a king.

"Bespoke massive kitchen to delight the queen with the latest kitchen appliances and large stone fireplace overlooking Potter Pond.

"The wood inlaid floors, doors and woodwork are built with more than 25 species of hardwoods imported from around the world.

"Period architectural doors and stained glass are found throughout the castle.

"The walkout lower level consist of approximately an additional 4.500 sq ft of finished space including a common area with fireplace and circular bar.

"There is a raised stage and auditorium. In-law/maids apartment.

"Radiant heat keeps the outdoor decks and patios free of snow.

"Nestled on seventy-five acres in bucolic Woodstock, CT overlooking a 30-acre pond, the Woodstock Castle offers the opportunity of a lifetime to own a dream come true."

Randall Realtors Compass tried to sell the property in 2014 for 18 months without success, then put it back on the market for $35 million in November.

John says there's currently no serious offers on the table for the stunning home, which was first deemed suitable to live in during 2010.

The Zillow listing at its current asking price has garnered attention from thousands of stunned Facebook users, attracting almost 4,000 comments.

One user said: "Will they take a cheque? I absolutely love castles! That one is spectacular!"

Another compared it to Princess Fiona's parent's house in Shrek 2, saying: "Is Shrek's father-in-law moving?"

A third joked: "In the description it says 'bespoke massive kitchen to delight the Queen.' Haha, not this queen. Somebody better be hiring a full-time cook if we can afford a $60 million castle!"

Another likened it to Disney World's famous castle and said: "Love watching the fireworks show they do each night before the park closes. Truly magical."