When Scott and I moved to South Florida, we made a commitment to explore the area just as tourists would and earlier this month we visited the renown Vizcaya Museum. Miami, Florida is renowned for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and diverse cultural scene. Amidst this modernity lies a gem from a bygone era—the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. Nestled in the lush Coconut Grove neighborhood, this historic mansion transports visitors to the lavish lifestyle of the Gilded Age. Unfortunately, it was pouring down rain the day we visited, so we didn’t get to enjoy the gardens like we had hoped to.
You will find the parking lot walking distance from the mansion. They have a paved trail that takes you to the main driveway.
Once you enter the grounds, it is apparent how opulent the mansion and grounds are.
A Glimpse into History
Commissioned by industrialist James Deering in the early 20th century, Vizcaya Mansion was built as a winter residence inspired by Italian Renaissance and Baroque architecture. James never married and used the mansion to entertain guests throughout the winter. Construction began in 1914 and was completed in 1922. The mansion was designed to resemble an Italian villa, with an exquisite attention to detail that remains unparalleled to this day. Unfortunately, James was not able to enjoy it very long, as he passed away in 1025.
Architectural Marvel
The mansion boasts a fusion of European opulence and American innovation. The exterior reflects the grandeur of Italian villas, featuring intricate stone carvings, majestic arches, and a red-tiled roof. Inside, visitors encounter a meticulously designed interior, adorned with awe-inspiring frescoes, ornate furnishings, and an impressive collection of European art and antiques.
Miami-Dade Museum
James Deering died in 1925 and gave the Vizcaya mansion to his nieces. However, they struggled to pay for the maintenance and donated the mansion to Miami-Dade County. It became a historic museum in 1953.
Visitors are guided through a journey through time as they explore the various rooms of the mansion. The opulent rooms, such as the grand hall, the dining room, and the music room, are masterpieces in their own right. Each room is a testament to the luxury and sophistication of the Gilded Age.
Below is a photo of just the pantry – not the kitchen!
The amount of detail that went into each room is stunning. Architect Paul Chalfin designed every room in the mansion.
The Music Room, with its gilded ceiling and grand piano, stands as a striking example of the mansion’s elegant design. The intricately designed ceilings, imported directly from Europe, are adorned with delicate craftsmanship and stunning murals, transporting visitors to a time of lavish gatherings and musical soirées.
The Design
Vizcaya Mansion originally was built as a square building with an open courtyard in the center and the guest rooms surrounding on the second floor. In 1985 the county enclosed the courtyard to preserve the structure and protect it from weather elements and hurricanes.
Every where you turn, you will find ornate items even in the hallways.
Nine Bedrooms
Vizcaya Museum has nine bathrooms and each have whimsical names. They are also decorated with ornate furnishings making each one unique from the others.
It’s interesting to see how the bathrooms were so different from each other.
The Staff
The staff stayed on the 2nd floor of the Vizcaya Museum and we didn’t have access to their quarters. There were a few sets of stairs to the 2nd floor, but the mansion also had an elevator. The kitchen was designed to be a full service catering kitchen to entertain many guests.
Enchanting Gardens
Beyond the mansion, the Vizcaya Gardens present an enchanting world of lush landscapes, elaborate fountains, and serene waterways. The gardens, designed by Paul Chalfin and Diego Suarez, incorporate Italian and French elements, creating a romantic and picturesque setting.
Visitors can stroll through the beautiful formal gardens, replete with sculpted hedges, marble statues, and reflecting pools. The charming Secret Garden, tucked away from the main area, offers a sense of tranquility and privacy, inviting contemplation amidst nature’s beauty.
In front of the mansion, is a breakwater called the “Vizcaya Barge” . It was intended to look like a boat, but over the years it has deteriorated due to high tides and hurricanes.
Can you imagine the parties they would have in the gardens? We were disappointed that it was raining so hard, as we really didn’t get a chance to enjoy them for very long.
The gardens had so many beautiful plants that I have never seen before. It’s fantastic that such a beautiful place is so well taken care of to preserve its history.
Preservation
In 1952, the estate was opened to the public as a museum, preserving its historical and architectural significance. Today, the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens continue to serve as a cultural hub, hosting events, exhibitions, and educational programs that celebrate art, history, and horticulture.
The Vizcaya Museum and Gardens stand as a testament to the magnificence of a bygone era. Its beauty, artistry, and historical significance make it a must-visit attraction for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in the opulence of the Gilded Age. Beyond its architectural marvel, the Vizcaya Mansion and Gardens offer a glimpse into a world of art, culture, and the timeless beauty of nature.
As always, thank you for following our journey! Please be sure to subscribe to our blog and our vlog – see link below. The video gives you a much closer look at the mansion and Scott tells the full story of its history. Follow us on social @BoatingJourney #BoatingJourney.
Cheers,
Scott and Ally
