Paradise Lost: Inside a $224 Million Abandoned Mansion (8 Photos)
Tucked away in Pennsylvania stands a magnificent estate often dubbed the "American Versailles." This sprawling mansion with lavish interiors has stood empty for decades. Built in the early 1900s by the richest man in the world, the breathtaking property eventually fell into neglect. Read on for the tragic story behind one of America's most stunning historic landmarks, which sadly continues to deteriorate with each passing year. 
Valued at $224 million today, the desolate mansion known as the "American Versailles" boasts 55 bedrooms, 20 bathrooms, and a massive ballroom. But the sad tale of this abandoned estate is tied directly to the tragedy of the Titanic. 
The estate was built in 1900 by Peter Widener, who was the wealthiest man in the world at the time. Set across 34 acres (14 hectares) just outside Philadelphia, the opulent residence was a true masterpiece. Widener reportedly held a 20% stake in the construction of the Titanic, but skipped its maiden voyage due to his advanced age. 
Tragically, his son, daughter-in-law, and grandson did board the doomed ship. Both his son and grandson perished in the disaster, while his daughter-in-law survived. Devastated, Widener passed away three years later, leaving the massive estate to his youngest son, Joseph. 
Known as Lynnewood Hall, the estate features a large indoor swimming pool, a private art gallery, and a grand ballroom capable of hosting a thousand guests at once. 
Regrettably, this grand architectural marvel now sits abandoned. Following Joseph Widener’s death in 1943, the home was left vacant. A decade later, it was purchased by Carl McIntire, founder of the Bible Presbyterian Church. 
He converted the mansion into a religious school, but it was forced to close in 1992 due to financial troubles. Four years later, the dilapidated property was transferred to the First Korean Church of New York. 
The richly decorated mansion once housed 16th-century European frescoes and priceless masterpieces by renowned artists such as Johannes Vermeer, Rembrandt, El Greco, and Édouard Manet. 
Although building the home in 1900 cost $8 million—equivalent to around $224 million today—it was put on the market in 2019 for just $20 million. Its asking price was recently slashed to $11 million.
Celebrity mansions never fail to amaze, yet many famous figures own properties that, due to unfortunate circumstances, have fallen from luxury into total decay.
