The historic jewels of the French Riviera

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The French Riviera, a land of refinement and beauty, is home to some of the most emblematic properties in architectural history. These legendary villas, such as Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, Villa Léopolda in Villefranche-sur-Mer, Villa Kérylos in Beaulieu-sur-Mer and Pavillon de Flore in Cannes, embody a perfect balance between historical heritage and timeless elegance. They bear witness to the Riviera’s golden age, while continuing to fascinate with their unique character.

The Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild: A Belle-Époque Jewel

Located in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild is a true architectural masterpiece of the Belle-Époque, built by Baroness Béatrice Ephrussi in the early 20th century. Overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, it is distinguished by its timeless elegance and its nine themed gardens, ranging from formal to exotic, offering an immersion in landscapes from around the world. This fascinating place, both museum and heritage gem, embodies the art of living on the French Riviera and bears witness to the region’s rich history.

Villa Leopolda: The Glow of a Legend

Nestled in the hills above Villefranche-sur-Mer, Villa Léopolda is a veritable emblem of luxury and history. Designed by King Leopold II of Belgium in the early 20th century, it is distinguished by its neo-renaissance architecture and vast gardens, covering 8 hectares and home to over 1,200 trees. Overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, the villa offers spectacular panoramic views of the coast. This mythical estate has been transformed over the years, through remarkable developments, and remains a symbol of opulence and refinement, with a fascinating history marked by several illustrious owners.

Villa Kérylos: An Ode to Ancient Greece

Overlooking the bay of Beaulieu-sur-Mer, Villa Kérylos is an architectural marvel, a faithful recreation of an ancient Greek house. Built in the early 20th century by Théodore Reinach, it combines the art of sculpture and mosaic with the refinements of modern comfort. The frescoes and columns that adorn the villa evoke the splendor of Hellenic civilization, while its exceptional location, facing the sea, offers breathtaking views. This villa is a living tribute to the passion for Antiquity that inspired the French Riviera at the time.

Le Pavillon de Flore: A haven of refinement in Cannes

A landmark of Cannes’ architectural heritage, the Pavillon de Flore, formerly known as the Villa Fénelon and then the Villa Californie, is inseparable from Pablo Picasso, who acquired it in the 1950s. This bourgeois villa, set in over 10,000 sqm of Mediterranean gardens, served as the artist’s studio, where he painted “The Bay of Cannes”, an ode to the urbanism of the French Riviera. Although Picasso left the villa for Mougins in 1961, the Pavillon de Flore remains a place steeped in history, witness to the encounter between art and architecture.

Historical Treasures of the Riviera

The French Riviera is a veritable treasure trove of history, where historic villas nestled along the coastline bear witness to the evolution of a region that has become the epicenter of international luxury. These beautifully renovated properties preserve their authenticity while offering a journey through time, evoking the refinement and elegance of a bygone era. Each home embodies a unique art of living, fusing architectural heritage with timeless style.

Image: Villa et Jardins Ephrussi de Rothschild, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

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