The Getty Villa

Tucked away on the hillside above the Pacific Ocean in Malibu, California, sits a replica of the Villa die Papiri. The undertaking of J. Paul Getty in 1968 as an answer to his growing collection of art.

Visiting here in February, the roses were just beginning to bud but the boxwood hedges simply glowed with newly borne chartreuse foliage accentuating the formality of the gardens in the Outer Paristyle. Even in this winter month the warmth of Italian architecture reminded me of my summer trip to Italy and I wanted to linger.

The trompe l'oeil walls of the peristyle delights visitors with floral swags, birds in flight, and catch from the hunt creating a sense of home amid the grandeur of the architecture.

Over 1,200 works can be viewed in the museum's Galleries highlighting Greek, Roman, and Etruscan antiquities. 

From busts and statues...

...to vessels, coins and jewelry.

The detailed work of artisans is astounding and inspiring. I especially liked the grape harvest scene depicted on a large sarcophagus.

A child playing in the safety of his father's shadow while he tends the flock. The carving of the child is about the size of a half dollar coin.

The sandaled foot of Herakles.

The villa boasts four gardens and an atrium placed around the grounds. I suggest breaking away from the museum at these intersections to sit in the fresh air for a respite before moving on to the next galleries.

The East Garden

The East Garden Fountain 

The Inner Peristyle Garden

A remarkable collection set in a most fitting setting, the Getty Villa transports you into the past in both body and mind. One of the most enjoyable museum visits in my travels.

I hope I have motivated you to get off the sofa and explore your world!

Buon Viaggio!

Lydia