The Tools Used at Coral Castle

Rock Gate Park the Coral Castle, located in Homestead, Florida, was constructed by Edward Leedskalnin using tools and mechanical components that remain preserved on site. The site, now known as Coral Castle, contains preserved tools, mechanical components, and historical artifacts associated with its construction. 

The construction of Coral Castle involved a wide range of tools, mechanical components, and devices. Many of these objects remain preserved on site, while others are known through historical photographs and surviving records. Some tools are clearly identifiable by form, while the purpose of others remains undocumented.

Archival Note:

This page documents tools and mechanical components associated with Coral Castle. Objects are described based on visible characteristics and historical records. Interpretations are noted separately from documented evidence. 

Mechanical Assembly Chain Gears

This historical photograph shows Edward Leedskalnin positioned beside a mechanical assembly that includes a large circular wheel integrated into a gear-and-chain structure. The assembly is mounted vertically and appears to be part of a larger lifting or positioning apparatus. A preserved mechanical assembly documented at Coral Castle, shown here as part of the site’s collection of tools and devices. The photograph documents the presence of mechanical devices used during the construction of Coral Castle. 

Archival Note:

This photograph documents a mechanical assembly preserved at Coral Castle that includes a large circular wheel as part of a gear-and-chain structure. Some later descriptions have referred to this object as a “magnetic flywheel” based on observations and Edward Leedskalnins writings on magnetism and electricity.

Lifting Structure and Stone Block

This historical photograph shows Edward Leedskalnin positioned beside a tall wooden lifting structure supporting a suspended stone block. The structure consists of multiple vertical timbers arranged in a tripod-like form, with ropes or chains extending downward from the upper assembly.

The photograph documents the use of mechanical lifting principles during the construction of Coral Castle.

Archival Note:

The image documents a method of suspending and positioning stone blocks during the construction of Coral Castle. While such structures are commonly used in conjunction with block-and-tackle systems, no detailed records exist describing the exact configuration, materials, or procedures used in this instance. Interpretations beyond what is visible in the photograph remain speculative.

Edward Leedskalnin "At Work"

A historical photograph showing Edward Leedskalnin standing beside a carved stone surface and a simple wooden structure at Coral Castle. The image provides visual context for the working environment present during construction and illustrates the scale of the stonework relative to the individual. 

2 Tripods and Stone Construction 

A historical photograph showing a large wooden tripod structure positioned near coral building at Coral Castle. A smaller tripod-like structure is visible atop the coral building.

Heavy Tool Component Display Wall 

A photograph showing a wall-mounted arrangement of heavy tools, mechanical components, chains, ropes, and hand tools preserved within an interior space at Coral Castle. The image presents a broad view of multiple objects displayed together, illustrating the range and scale of tools associated with construction and later preservation. 

Figures on This Page

• Figure 1. Mechanical gear and chain assembly

• Figure 2. Lifting Structure and Stone Block

• Figure 3. Edward Leedskalnin "At Work"

• Figure 4. 2 Tripods and Stone Construction 

• Figure 5. Heavy Tool and Component Display Wall 

Related Pages

The Builder - The Writings - The Museum