Villa Ormond, 19th-century mansion with botanical gardens in Sanremo, Italy
Villa Ormond is a 19th-century mansion in Sanremo built on classical principles with a raised ground floor and broad terraces facing the Mediterranean. The residence sits within 16,000 square meters of gardens that blend different plant zones and open spaces with water views.
Michel Louis Ormond, a Swiss cigar manufacturer, commissioned architect Emile Réverdin to build this residence after an earthquake destroyed his previous villa in 1887. The new structure became an important private residence in the region's development.
The International Institute of Humanitarian Law operates here and brings researchers and professionals focused on human rights to the villa. This function gives the place a sense of purpose beyond its role as a historical residence.
The villa and gardens are open daily from morning to evening for visitors to explore at their own pace. The grounds are mostly flat with some steps at the main building, so comfortable walking shoes are useful.
The gardens contain two groups of Phoenix palms, including some of the largest specimens in Europe. A Japanese garden designed by Kazuo Makioka adds another layer to the botanical collection.
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