Villa La Léopolda

La Léopolda is a Renaissance Revival villa in Villefranche-sur-Mer on the French Riviera, sitting on expansive grounds with landscaped gardens. From its hillside position, the estate offers sweeping views over the Mediterranean and the surrounding coastal landscape.

American architect Ogden Codman Jr designed the villa between 1929 and 1931 on land previously owned by King Leopold II of Belgium. The estate changed hands several times over the decades and underwent various renovations during that period.

During World War I, the estate served as a military hospital before later becoming a filming location for several movies, including the Hitchcock production "To Catch a Thief". Today, the building attracts attention from cinema enthusiasts and architecture lovers because of its connection with historical figures and famous film scenes.

The villa remains closed to the public as a private residence and is protected with extensive security measures. Visitors can only view the estate from outside, such as from the coastal road or surrounding hillsides.

In 2008, a failed purchase negotiation led to a high-profile legal dispute involving a substantial deposit. The case drew international attention and brought the estate into the headlines of the business press.

Location: Villefranche-sur-Mer

Inception: 1902

Architects: Ogden Codman, Jr.

Architectural style: Renaissance Revival architecture

GPS coordinates: 43.70944,7.32111

Latest update: December 2, 2025 20:05