Villa San Martin, Imperial residence museum in Portoferraio, Italy.
Villa San Martin is a former residence in Portoferraio with eight rooms decorated with Egyptian motifs and refined designs by court painter Revelli throughout the interior. The chambers showcase different artistic styles and ornamental details across the various living spaces.
The property was acquired in June 1814 and transformed from a farmhouse into a summer residence during exile on the island of Elba. This rapid conversion shows how a simple building was adapted to new needs in a short period.
The Egyptian Room displays hieroglyphics and trompe-l'oeil paintings that commemorate a military campaign, with an octagonal basin at its center. The wall decorations by court painter Revelli reflect the tastes and interests of the person who lived here.
The museum is easily reached by regular bus connections from Portoferraio running several times daily. Your ticket gives access to the villa and an adjoining gallery.
The modern museum collection includes a personal library and furnishings from a specific historical period that were once donated to the Portoferraio community. These objects offer a rare glimpse into everyday life behind the decorated walls.
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