Editing Biltmore Estate (section)

=== George Washington Vanderbilt II and the Vision Behind Biltmore ===
The Biltmore Estate was conceived by '''George Washington Vanderbilt II''', a member of the prominent Vanderbilt family known for their immense wealth and influence during the Gilded Age. George Vanderbilt, an intellectual and traveler, sought to create a grand country retreat where he could escape the hustle and bustle of city life. His vision was to construct an estate that reflected the elegance and opulence of European castles while showcasing America's rising architectural prowess.

Vanderbilt commissioned '''Richard Morris Hunt''', one of the most prominent architects of the time, to design the mansion. The result was a 250-room French Renaissance chateau-inspired home, filled with luxurious details, elaborate craftsmanship, and state-of-the-art amenities. The estate’s construction involved thousands of workers and craftsmen, making it a symbol of the Vanderbilt family's wealth and ambition.