Villa Belza

Perched dramatically on the rugged coastline of Biarritz, Villa Belza is a striking testament to the neo-medieval architectural style that enchants visitors with its mysterious allure and storied past. Built between 1880 and 1895, this iconic villa has become a symbol of the region, capturing the imagination of all who lay eyes on it.

The Fascinating History of Villa Belza

The origins of Villa Belza date back to 1825 when Dominique Daguerre, a local farmer, acquired a plot of land curiously situated among the rocks. This land, known as Champ du Rossignol or Cassaou de Trespots, changed hands several times before being purchased in 1882 by Ange Dufresnay, a prominent insurance company director from Paris. Dufresnay commissioned architect Alphonse Bertrand and contractor A. Joly to design and construct a house on this unique site.

The villa's rectangular plan was enhanced by a neo-medieval keep and a pepperpot turret, crafted by Dominique Morin in 1889. Its unusual location on the rocks, proximity to the Trou du Diable (Devil's Hole), and the name Belza (meaning black in Basque) have fueled legends of witchcraft and ghostly apparitions. Dufresnay named the villa in honor of his wife, Marie Belza Dubreuil.

A Cinematic Backdrop and Glamorous Parties

In 1908, Villa Belza's dramatic setting caught the eye of filmmakers, and it was used as a backdrop for various movie scenes. By 1923, the villa had a new tenant, Grégoire Beliankine, who was related to the famous composer Igor Stravinsky. Beliankine transformed the villa into a Russian restaurant called Le Château Basque due to restrictions on using the name Belza.

During this period, Villa Belza became renowned for its lavish galas and themed parties. Guests were treated to opulent celebrations such as the Russian Night, Japanese Night, Neptune's Feast, and Bacchus's Feast. The African Nights saw the garden metamorphose into a jungle, complete with vines and exotic animals, including gorillas and boas.

The villa's reputation for grandeur and revelry attracted high-profile guests, including the Prince of Wales, the future Edward VIII, and Russian grand dukes who felt transported back to their homeland. In 1926, the Cossack Choir performed nightly, followed by exuberant Charleston dances.

Transformations and Challenges

In 1927, Villa Belza underwent a complete renovation, transforming its interior into a 17th-century country inn with Louis XIII furniture and red tapestries. However, the Great Depression of 1929 marked the beginning of the villa's decline.

During World War II, the villa was requisitioned by the German army, and a blockhouse was constructed to defend the nearby port. After the war, Madame Pouyet, née Lacrouts, returned from America and purchased the villa. She restored it and divided it into seven apartments. Unfortunately, disputes among the occupants led to the first of two devastating fires.

In 1974, a second fire ravaged the villa, destroying the second and third floors. Legal battles and administrative delays left the villa in a state of disrepair, and it became a haven for squatters.

Revival and Preservation

In the 1990s, Jean-Marc Galabert, a young real estate dealer from Paris, succeeded in acquiring all the units and embarked on a comprehensive restoration project. The villa's exterior was preserved, and ten luxurious condominiums were created, setting a record for property prices in 1993.

Recognizing the villa's historical and architectural significance, the municipality included Villa Belza in the protected list of 837 buildings under the Zone of Protection of Architectural, Urban, and Landscape Heritage (ZPPAUP) in 1997. From 2015 to 2018, the villa underwent extensive exterior renovations to restore its former glory.

In 2020, an apartment in Villa Belza sold for an astonishing 40,000 euros per square meter, underscoring its status as one of Biarritz's most prestigious properties.

Visiting Villa Belza

Today, Villa Belza stands as a captivating blend of history, architecture, and legend. As you stroll along the scenic coastal path that encircles the villa, you can imagine the glamorous parties of the 1920s and the dramatic events that have shaped its story. The villa's neo-medieval design, with its turret and keep, remains a striking contrast to the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.

Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a curious traveler, Villa Belza offers a unique glimpse into the past and a chance to experience the enchantment of Biarritz's coastal heritage. Its walls echo with tales of opulence, resilience, and transformation, making it a must-visit destination on your journey through this charming French town.