Nestled in the charming coastal town of Viareggio, Italy, Villino Tolomei stands as a testament to architectural elegance and historical depth. This distinguished villa, located at the intersection of Viale Manin and Via Verdi, is a captivating piece of Viareggio's rich tapestry, offering visitors a glimpse into the artistic and cultural evolution of the region.
The story of Villino Tolomei begins in 1872 when the area was little more than a stretch of sandy beach. By 1875, Luigi Nobili had transformed this plot into a villa, setting the stage for its future grandeur. Over the years, the villa changed hands and underwent various transformations, yet it retained its core essence. In 1897, Margherita Di Linnenfeld added a new section to the villa, although this addition lacked the architectural finesse of the original structure.
The villa's most significant transformation came in the early 20th century when it was acquired by Sofia Gambogi Bertolli. Under her ownership, the villa was adorned with decorative elements by the renowned architect Alfredo Belluomini and the talented painter and decorator Galileo Chini. These enhancements, completed in the 1920s, did not alter the villa's spatial organization but enriched its aesthetic appeal with exquisite decorative details.
Villino Tolomei is a striking example of architectural ingenuity, standing out in the urban landscape with its robust, squared volume. The villa's façade is a harmonious blend of symmetry and decorative richness, marked by two nearly identical street-facing elevations. The geometric precision of its design is complemented by the ornate embellishments envisioned by Belluomini.
The villa's balustrade is a noteworthy feature, concealing the gentle slope of the roof beneath a continuous frieze of ceramic tiles crafted by the San Lorenzo kilns, overseen by Galileo and Chino Chini. This decorative scheme includes baroque-style vases at the building's corners, enhancing its visual allure.
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The villa's decorative elements are a feast for the eyes. The parapet is adorned with spiral-patterned phytomorphic friezes, while a central motif features a vase with garlands held by cherubs. Below the balustrade, a unique cornice with closely spaced triglyphs adds a touch of classical elegance, emphasizing the villa's horizontal elements.
The façade's ceramic tiles depict whimsical seahorses, a signature of Chini's work, walking on stylized waves. These tiles, with their vibrant colors and gold accents, create a dynamic visual narrative that captures the imagination.
Inside Villino Tolomei, the recent conservation efforts have preserved its original charm. The ground floor's flooring has been replaced with a tasteful combination of white stones and colored cement, bordered by intricate designs in black or yellow stone. The kitchen's floor, a checkerboard of light and dark marble tiles, has been restored to its former glory.
The villa's interior layout remains unchanged, with three entrances on Viale Manin leading to interconnected spaces. A grand entrance on Via Verdi opens into an elongated salon, showcasing a cross-vaulted ceiling adorned with multicolored frescoes. This space offers a stunning view of the staircase, which features a skylight and decorative ceramic tiles by Chini.
Galileo Chini's artistic influence is evident throughout the villa. The salon's ceiling, with its geometric patterns and intertwining lines, is a testament to his mastery. The salon opens onto a courtyard, now covered with a barrel-vaulted structure, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
The villa's right wing houses a kitchen with a simple cross-vaulted ceiling, while the left wing features a central vestibule and two study rooms. Each study room boasts a fireplace, one in sculpted stone from the 16th century and the other in gray marble, adding a touch of historic elegance.
Villino Tolomei is more than just a villa; it is a symbol of Viareggio's rich cultural heritage. Its walls echo the stories of its past, from its humble beginnings to its transformation into a masterpiece of architectural and decorative art. For visitors to Viareggio, a tour of Villino Tolomei offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the artistic and cultural evolution of this enchanting coastal town.
In conclusion, Villino Tolomei is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Viareggio. Its architectural beauty, historical significance, and artistic treasures make it a captivating attraction that leaves a lasting impression on all who visit.
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