Page 3 - cn - er concepts on the Belvoir narrative june 2020
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A Fantasy Setting
In 1799 Elizabeth drew her initial plans for the 4th Castle. Her
vision was for a neo-Gothic romantic setting which was at the
height of Regency fashion. The castle was to be a fairy tale castle.
The interior space was equally cutting. The surrounding gardens
and parkland were landscaped harmonious with this vision.
Based on Capability Brown’s plans of 1780, Elizabeth augmented
his scheme with her own ideas included in vogue influences at the
time, to include Romantic styled gardens.
Work started on the construction on Good Friday in 1801, by
engaging the Romantic Gothic Architect James Wyatt, who had
been working on Windsor Castle for the Prince Regent.
The castle was completed and ready in 1813-1814 for the visit of
the Prince Regent to Belvoir.
A fire in 1816 destroyed considerable sections of the castle.
Elizabeth was determined to salvage what was remaining and
proceeded to restore her vision.
It was on the 27th November 1825 Elizabeth died aged 45, and her
completed Gothic vision was denied her.
It was for her husband John, 5th Duke of Rutland to complete
Elizabeth’s dream castle.
