French Renaissance in Coconut Grove
The Renaissance-style villa was originally built in 1914 for industrialist James Deering, who designed a complex of buildings and gardens for his holiday home.
Eventually, in 1910, Deering acquired property near the chic Coconut Grove neighborhood to put his plans into action. In the end, a beautiful villa was built, which can also be described as a castle. The property is located directly on the water and, in addition to an extensive garden, also has its own jetty.
After a few trips to Europe, among other things to source furniture and furnishings there, Deering named his domicile after the Spanish province of Vizcaya, which is also known in English as Biscay.
After Deering’s death in 1925, the property changed hands several times and was even owned by a Catholic diocese for a time. In 1952, Miami-Dade County acquired the mansion and, after extensive restoration, opened the current museum. The furnishings are still original and were donated to the museum by Deering’s bereaved family.
What to see and do at Vizcaya Gardens
The main house includes 34 public rooms that can be explored independently or as part of a guided tour lasting approximately 45 minutes.
There is also a guided tour of the garden where you have the opportunity to learn more about the exotic plants and the general design of the garden.
Who Was James Deering?
But Deering’s health was already troubling him during the construction of his winter home. After being able to spend a few winters in his estate in Coconut Grove, he died in September 1925.
