Elvis Presley`s Graceland marks 30th year as attraction

DHAKA: When Graceland opened to the public 30 years ago this month, nobody knew if it would be a success.

Nearly 18 million visitors later, the house where Elvis Presley once lived is a money-making business that`s helped transform the city of Memphis into a top destination for music lovers.

But Presley`s ex-wife says it`s the spirit of Elvis that keeps the crowds coming.

`Every time I go in there, I feel like Elvis is going to come down the stairs any minute`, said Priscilla Presley in an exclusive interview with The Associated Press about the anniversary, reports The Straits Times.

Presley died on Aug 16, 1977, and by the early 1980s, Graceland had become a burden on his estate, which faced high estate and inheritance taxes.

Accountants and bankers wanted to sell the home, but Priscilla Presley thought that opening the house to tourists could solve the financial problems while keeping Elvis` legacy alive.

She secured a US$500,000 investment and visited other tourist attractions - Hearst Castle, Will Rogers` home, even Disney World - for inspiration.

BDST: 0037 HRS, JUN 14, 2012
Edited by Robab Rosan, Cultural Affairs Editor