Villa Favorita, Ercolano

Villa Favorita in Portici, Italy, is a splendid example of the aristocratic villas that grace the coastline of the Gulf of Naples. This architectural gem, designed by the renowned architect Ferdinando Fuga, was constructed in the mid-18th century and has played a significant role in the region's history, serving as a royal residence and later as a training school for the penitentiary police. Its vibrant history and elegant design make it a must-visit destination for those exploring the heritage of southern Italy.

The Aristocratic Origins (1762-1792)

The origins of Villa Favorita date back to the 18th century when Giuseppe Beretta, Duke of Simari, commissioned the construction of a seaside casino in the small Vesuvian town of Resina, now known as Ercolano. In 1761, the property was acquired by Esteban Reggio and Gravina, Prince of Jacci and Campoflorido, who hired the celebrated architect Ferdinando Fuga to design a new late-Baroque villa. The construction took place between 1762 and 1768, culminating in a grand inauguration in April 1768, coinciding with the marriage of King Ferdinand IV and Archduchess Maria Carolina of Austria.

The Royal Residence of Ferdinand IV (1792-1806)

Following the death of the Prince of Jacci in 1790, his heirs sold the villa to King Ferdinand IV in 1792. The king transformed part of the estate into the Accademia dei Cavalieri di Guardiamarina, a naval academy for young nobles. Although the academy moved to Naples in 1799, the villa underwent luxurious redecoration and refurnishing between 1796 and 1798. A notable addition during this period was the installation of a grand mosaic in the oval hall on the ground floor, sourced from the Villa Del Castiglione in Capri.

Further redecorations took place between 1800 and 1802 to repair damage from the Neapolitan Revolution of 1799. In 1802, Ferdinand IV expanded the villa towards the sea by acquiring the property of the Baron of Zezza. By the early 19th century, Villa Favorita had reached its peak in terms of opulence, with grand reception rooms, royal apartments, and exquisite decorations in both Chinese and Etruscan styles.

The French Decade and Bourbon Restoration (1806-1825)

During the French occupation from 1806 to 1815, the villa was used by Joachim Murat and Caroline Bonaparte for family gatherings and celebrations. Despite the political upheaval, the villa's furnishings remained elegant yet simple. Upon the return of Ferdinand IV to the throne in 1815, the villa was frequently used and further beautified, although it never fully regained its pre-1806 splendor.

The Era of Prince Leopold (1825-1851)

In 1825, following the death of Ferdinand IV, the villa became the property of his second son, Prince Leopold of Salerno. Leopold undertook significant transformations, including the construction of a new wing by architect Pietro Bianchi to accommodate his large entourage. He also introduced a variety of attractions in the villa's park, turning it into a public amusement park reminiscent of Vienna's Prater. These attractions included carousels, swings, a Ferris wheel, and a miniature railway, making the park a popular destination for Neapolitans for three decades.

The Return to Royal Ownership (1851-1860)

After Prince Leopold's death in 1851, the villa returned to royal ownership. King Ferdinand II commissioned plans for further expansion, although these were never realized. He did, however, refurbish the park's attractions, adding a roller coaster and a small train. The villa continued to be a site of social and cultural activity until the unification of Italy in 1860.

The Decline and Modern Era (1860-2019)

With the unification of Italy, Villa Favorita passed into the hands of the House of Savoy, although it was rarely used by King Victor Emmanuel II. The villa's furnishings were gradually relocated to other royal residences, and by the late 19th century, it had fallen into a state of neglect. In 1879, the villa was sold, and after several changes in ownership, it was acquired by the state in 1936. The villa was used for various purposes, including as a school for the penitentiary police, and suffered from significant deterioration over the years.

Efforts to restore the villa began in the 21st century, with the facades being repainted in 2015 and parts of the park being reopened to the public in 2016. Despite these efforts, the villa remains in a fragile state, with sections of the building collapsing as recently as 2019.

Today, Villa Favorita stands as a testament to the grandeur of its past and the enduring appeal of its architectural beauty. Visitors can explore its storied history, marvel at its design, and imagine the opulent lifestyle of its former royal inhabitants. Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply looking to experience a piece of Italy's cultural heritage, Villa Favorita offers a fascinating glimpse into the past.