Pope Villa

Pope Villa is a Federal-era residence in Lexington with a square footprint and a domed circular structure positioned at the center of the upper floor. The rooms are arranged with careful attention to symmetry, with the dome serving as the dominant central feature.

The residence was completed in 1811 according to Benjamin Henry Latrobe's design for Senator John Pope, showcasing modern American Neoclassical architecture. Latrobe later became a leading figure in shaping major public buildings across the country.

The house blends Federal and Neoclassical design, showing how early American homes adopted European architectural thinking. Walking through the rooms, you notice how elegance and careful order shaped the way people imagined residential living.

The building can be visited through guided tours offered by the Blue Grass Trust for Historic Preservation, which focus on the architecture and design. The location on Grosvenor Avenue in Lexington is easy to reach and makes a good starting point for exploring other historic sites in the area.

The house is one of only three surviving American homes designed by Latrobe, who went on to architect the Capitol building. This rarity makes it a precious example of the early work of one of the country's most influential architects.

Location: Lexington

GPS coordinates: 38.03948,-84.49580

Latest update: December 12, 2025 07:55