Dacha Mriya, Simeiz, Villa with Moorish Revival architecture in Simeiz, Ukraine.
Dacha Mriya is a villa built in Moorish Revival style on the Black Sea coast in Simeiz. The building features decorative arches, colorful tilework, and details inspired by North African architecture that shape its entire exterior.
The building was constructed in the late 19th century when Crimea gained fame as a health resort for the wealthy drawn to its therapeutic coastal climate. The villa arose during a period of growth in the seaside town when luxury homes were built for affluent families.
The villa carries the name Mriya, meaning dream, reflecting the aspirations of wealthy owners who sought to create a Mediterranean retreat here. The decorated facade with its arches and tilework shows how 19th-century European collectors of exotic styles brought them into their summer homes.
The location sits on a hillside overlooking the Black Sea and is best explored on foot. Nearby Simeiz provides accommodations and services for visitors wanting to see the building and the surrounding area.
The villa was built by the notable merchant and art collector Grigory Shved, who wanted a residence featuring distinctive Moorish elements that stood out. The blend of luxury and exotic design made it a local landmark for wealthy health seekers visiting Simeiz.
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