Hardwick Hall is one of the most impressive Elizabethan houses in Britain. It was built in the late 16th century by Elizabeth Shrewsbury, who was also known as Bess of Hardwick. She attained immense wealth and influence as the result of four marriages to powerful men. Her initials 'ES' adorn six rooftop sculptures. Her descendants, the Dukes of Devonshire, still own the nearby Chatsworth.