The Architecture of the French Riviera
Much of the architecture of the French Riviera traces to the Belle poque or "Beautiful
Era" bracketed by the latter half of the 19th century and the end of World War I. (For example, the Hotel Negresco in Nice.) The period was characterised by ostentation and extravagance, evident in many of the villas and hotels of the region. Though a clearly dominant decorative and structural influence, multiple architectural styles from pre-historic times forward can be found throughout the south of France.Paradoxically, many of the French Riviera's most obvious examples of Art Nouveau buildings (the curvilinear, stylized designs that peaked at the turn of the 20th century), sit adjacent to the region's significant pre-historic ruins. Some sites in the Cte d'Azur date to nomadic peoples who inhabited caves near Roquebrune-Cap-Martin as early as 950,000 BCE. An ancient fireplace near the Nice Port at Terra Amata is the oldest in Europe, dating to 400,000 BCE.
In both Frjus and St-Raphael, Roman canals are still in use to carry water. (Anthony and Cleopatra sailed to the port of Frjus following their defeat at Actium in 31 BCE.) The town's Baptistry also has an excellent example of early Christian architecture dating to the 1400s. The Roman influence is also evident in Nice at the amphitheatre and baths, now also the site of a beautiful garden with panoramic views. Gothic elements are evident across the region, especially in facades, windows, and doorways, while the Cathedrale Sainte-Reparte in Nice epitomises the Baroque aesthetic.
A particularly unique structure, the Russian Orthodox Church of St-Nicholas in Nice, was completed in 1912 in tribute to Czar Nicholas II who died in the city while attempting to recover from tuberculosis. With treasures including fabulous woodwork, frescoes, and elaborate icons, the cathedral is a monument of pre-revolutionary Russian religious styling that seems out of place on the Cte d'Azur. However, there was a significant Russian presence in the south of France at the end of the 19th century with the Russian fleet frequently dropping anchor in the deep water harbour at Villefranche.
Finally, the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, which sits atop a hill at Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is an excellent example of the sort of palazzo built by the wealthy aristocrats who originally "discovered" the French Riviera. Bequeathed to the Acadmie des Beaux-Arts in 1934 by the Baroness Charlotte Beatrix Ephrussi Rothschild, the palazzo offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean on both sides and is surrounded by nine magnificent gardens.
The rich mix of architectural styles throughout the French Riviera adds an extra level of interest for tourists on holiday. Although the region's fine hotels and spas paired with pristine beaches are a significant summer draw, day trips readily yield hidden historical gems. Long a playground of royalty, aristocrats, businessmen, and celebrities, significant wealth has come into play in the building styles present in all the major cities up and down the Cte d'Azur as well as at popular spots in the interior.
The Architecture of the French Riviera
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