HISTORIC VILLA WITH ECLECTIC STYLE AND PRIVATE PARK, MODICA, SICILY

Designed by Leghorn engineer Carlo Cartier and built between 1896 and 1898, this villa blends Gothic, Renaissance, and Moorish elements. Its tower, embrasures, rustication, pointed-arch windows and friezes, and columned loggia are a testament to the eclecticism that characterized the residences of the wealthy bourgeoisie and nobility in Europe in the second half of the 19th century. Sloping red-tiled roofs recall the style of Alpine buildings, while elegant openwork friezes decorate the central part of the house and are repeated in the arches of doors and windows, including in the inner courtyard. Three of the four wrought-iron gates to the villa are supported by turrets with acroters, while the main gate is supported by two old original towers once used as guard posts. These towers, with pointed-arch windows and ornamental friezes, overlook the main street, creating a majestic and striking entrance.
The villa covers an area of 2,000 square meters and includes the main house, a large park-garden, outbuildings, the hunter’s house and a large courtyard. Inside, elegant staircases with ancient stone balustrades lead to the living room, dining room and a room illuminated by a loggia above with polychrome glass and delicate floral decorations. A side staircase leads to a loggia with large windows overlooking the garden. The private area of the villa, located on the mezzanine floor, includes twelve rooms, as well as numerous other service rooms. An internal staircase connects the loggia to the “parterre” on the second floor. On the ground floor, a terrace with stairs leads to the garden and orchard. A large courtyard to the northwest connects the villa to the outbuildings, which include servants’ rooms, bathrooms, kitchens, a shed, a granary and a room for hunters. Over the years, parts of the villa have been annexed to increase the functionality and livability of the property.