Attraction Guide: Getty Villa, Los Angeles, United States

Getty Villa Guide

Ancient Worlds Reimagined: Art and Architecture at the Getty Villa Guide

Step back in time at the Getty Villa, a stunning museum dedicated to the art and cultures of ancient Greece, Rome, and Etruria. Located in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles, the Villa is more than just a museum; it's an architectural masterpiece inspired by the Villa dei Papiri in Herculaneum, Italy, which was buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Prepare to be transported to the Mediterranean world of antiquity. The Getty Villa's history is intertwined with the story of J. Paul Getty, the oil tycoon and avid art collector. Getty began collecting antiquities in the 1930s, and his collection eventually outgrew his Malibu ranch house. He commissioned the construction of the Getty Villa in the 1970s to house his growing collection and to create a museum that would educate and inspire visitors. The Villa opened to the public in 1974 and underwent extensive renovations in the late 1990s and early 2000s to enhance the visitor experience. A visit to the Getty Villa offers a rich and immersive experience. Explore the galleries filled with ancient sculptures, vases, and mosaics. Wander through the meticulously recreated gardens, which feature plants and herbs that were used in ancient times. Attend a lecture or workshop to learn more about ancient art and culture. While there isn't a specific culinary tradition associated with the Villa, the cafe offers Mediterranean-inspired cuisine that complements the museum's theme.