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Biltmore History

The History of an American Icon

Discover the estate’s origin, its evolution from country home to beloved national treasure, and the family responsible for its creation and preservation.

Estate Timeline

Explore significant moments in Biltmore’s rich history, from George Vanderbilt’s birth to the construction of Biltmore House to the present day.

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The Vanderbilt Family

Today, Biltmore House is a National Historic Landmark known as America’s Largest Home®. Before it became one of North Carolina’s most popular tourist destinations, it was simply “home” to the Vanderbilt family.

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Key Figures

Meet the key figures in Biltmore history whose contributions had the greatest impacts upon the estate’s conception and enduring legacy.

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A Unique Collection

From objects George Vanderbilt acquired during his many trips abroad to pieces commissioned by his descendants and beyond, the collection of more than 92,000 items housed at Biltmore is vast and varied.

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EXPLORE OUR HISTORY IN PERSON

A truly one-of-a-kind experience awaits.