Hidden away in the foothills of Glendora, CA is the whimsical (and fictional) country of Rubelia.  And what whimsical country is complete without its own castle?

Rubel Castle, with its towering turrets, secret passageways and eccentric charm, is an unconventional landmark that has captured the hearts and imaginations of visitors for over 30 years – it certainly captured mine.

I visited Rubel Castle and found it fascinating and enchanting, from the drawbridge (that’s not a drawbridge) to the century old clock, to the bikes embedded in the stone walls, to the dragon … there was so much to see and appreciate.  

Rubel Castle was the life work of Michael Rubel, who barely graduated high school and didn’t fit into the “normal world.”  So he created his own world.

In this video, I take you on a tour of Rubel Castle in the whimsical country of Rubelia.

Rubel Castle was deeded to the Glendale Historical Society on Michael’s death, and tours are available on a regular basis. It’s $20 per adult, cash only.

All of the docents who give the tours personally knew Michael, and some of them even helped him build the castle. So no matter when you go, you’ll get really personal stories.