The Breakers, an opulent Gilded Age mansion located at 44 Ochre Point Avenue in Newport, Rhode Island, is a testament to the grandeur and extravagance of an era long past. Nestled majestically along the shores of Easton Bay, this remarkable residence, encompassing 62,482 square feet, stands as a magnificent architectural gem.

The mansion's illustrious history is intertwined with the Vanderbilt family, one of the wealthiest families of the time. Cornelius Vanderbilt II, a scion of this affluent clan, commissioned the construction of The Breakers as a summer retreat. The mansion, a Renaissance Revival masterpiece, was crafted between 1893 and 1895 under the visionary design of renowned architect Richard Morris Hunt. This five-story marvel boasts 70 rooms and is characterized by its resplendent opulence.

The estate, sprawling across 14 acres, with the mansion itself occupying around 1 acre (approximately 43,000 square feet), showcases meticulous craftsmanship and an unbridled passion for luxury. The interiors, a testament to elegance and refinement, bear the creative imprint of interior designers Jules Allard and Sons and Ogden Codman Jr. These spaces are a harmonious blend of artistry and extravagance.

Today, The Breakers is lovingly preserved and managed by the Newport Preservation Society, offering a unique opportunity for the public to step back in time and experience the grandeur of the Gilded Age. Open year-round to visitors, the mansion stands as the crown jewel among Newport's famed mansions and holds the distinction of being the most popular attraction in the entire state of Rhode Island, drawing over 500,000 visitors annually.

In recognition of its historical and cultural significance, The Breakers earned a place on the National Register of Historic Places on September 10, 1971 (Reference Number: 71000019). This esteemed designation underscores the mansion's enduring legacy and its role in preserving the heritage of a bygone era.

Further elevating its status, The Breakers was designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1994. Additionally, it forms an integral part of the Bellevue Avenue Historic District as a key supporting estate, emphasizing its pivotal role in Newport's architectural and cultural landscape.

The Breakers Mansion stands as a testament to the opulence and elegance of the Gilded Age, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the grandeur of a bygone era while preserving this exquisite legacy for generations to come.