Villa Wesendonck, 19th-century villa in Rieterpark, Zürich, Switzerland
Villa Wesendonck is a 19th-century residence in Zürich's Rieterpark that displays Italian Renaissance influences. The white facade features symmetrical proportions, large windows, and ornamental details, while a 2007 underground extension added modern gallery spaces across two levels beneath the original structure.
Architect Leonhard Zeugheer built this residence between 1853 and 1857 for merchant Otto Wesendonck and his wife Mathilde on the left shore of the lake. The building was later transformed into an art museum that has operated since 1952.
The Museum Rietberg presents art collections from Asia, Africa, the Americas, and Oceania within this setting. Visitors encounter objects and artworks that represent diverse cultures and traditions from around the world.
The grounds are surrounded by manicured parkland that makes it easy to explore the building and its surroundings. It is worth allowing time to visit both the historic villa and the modern underground gallery areas.
Composer Richard Wagner stayed at the villa and worked on his opera Tristan und Isolde while living here. His creative work at this location connects the building to an important chapter in musical history.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
