Villa Etelinda, 19th century villa in Bordighera, Italy
Villa Etelinda is a 19th-century mansion on Via Romana in Bordighera, recognizable by its slender tower decorated with geometric mosaics and arched openings. The facade features detailed leaf patterns along its archways, and the building now houses a private art collection.
Banker Giulio Bozelli commissioned architect Charles Garnier, the designer of the Paris Opera, to create this residence, which was completed in 1875. Bordighera was attracting wealthy visitors from across Europe at the time, and the villa was built in the middle of that period.
The name references a musical composition that reflected the artistic interests of its former owners. The rooms now display art collections that visitors encounter during their tour.
The building is easy to spot from Via Romana, and visits inside are available through guided tours. It is worth checking in advance whether tours are running, as opening times can be limited.
A golden mosaic frieze above the ground-floor windows carries a Latin inscription commemorating the recovery of a member of the Italian royal family. This dedication was worked directly into the building and can still be read on the facade today.
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