Swannanoa, Renaissance Revival mansion in Afton, Virginia.
Swannanoa is a Renaissance Revival mansion in Afton, Virginia, constructed entirely from white marble. The central dome rises above multi-story wings with profiled columns, balconies, and elaborate reliefs on facades and interiors.
An industrialist commissioned Italian craftsmen in 1912 to build this estate as a gift for his wife. After his death, the residence changed hands several times and served among other uses as a spiritual center.
The name refers to a Cherokee expression and shows the desire for poetic references in American architecture at the start of the 20th century. Visitors today experience the original interior fittings with handcrafted carvings and imported furniture from Europe.
Visits are conducted exclusively through guided tours that must be booked in advance through the management. The location on a hilltop offers wide views over the Blue Ridge Mountains, with sturdy footwear recommended for the paths.
All marble was transported by rail and horse-drawn wagons over the mountains before modern roads were built. The craftsmen lived on the property during construction and brought traditional European techniques to the remote region.
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