The Artichoke Capitol of the World

August 22, 2006

Just a short drive from San Francisco lies Castroville, the self-proclaimed “Artichoke Capital of the World.” This small coastal town is responsible for producing nearly two-thirds of all artichokes grown in California. It’s home to the famous Giant Artichoke statue, located at 11261 Merritt Street, and an annual festival celebrating the thistle. In 1948, a then-unknown Marilyn Monroe was even crowned as the first Artichoke Queen.