It’s official, one of the architectural gems of the Promenade des Anglais has just entered the pantheon of French heritage. The Masséna Villa, a neoclassical pearl overlooking the Bay of Angels, is now listed as a historical monument. This recognition has been eagerly awaited, requested since last November by the city of Nice, and it celebrates the cultural and historical significance of this emblematic building.
A distinction that makes a difference
Built between 1898 and 1901 for Prince Victor d’Essling—grandson of Marshal Masséna—the villa is a true ode to the Belle Époque. At that time, aristocrats from all over Europe flocked to the Riviera, and the Danish architect Hans-Georg Tersling, a star of the moment, created a total work of art here. With its elegant façade, salons inspired by Italy, and a sumptuous 8,000 m² garden: the Masséna Villa ticked all the boxes for Niçoise glamour. Since 1919, it has belonged to the city, a wonderful gift.
graciously by the prince's family, and today it houses a local history museum where you can discover the treasures of 19th-century Nice, blending art, politics, and the sweetness of life.With this new status, the villa joins the exclusive circle of 14,808 designated monuments in France — a distinction that ensures its preservation and highlights its cultural significance. A lovely double honor, as its gardens have also just been labeled as a “ remarkable garden ” by the DRAC. So, it's safe to say that the Masséna villa is more than ever a place to (re)discover, whether you're a true Niçois or just a wandering lover of the Mediterranean.
Source : Le Figaro
