Perched gracefully on the right bank of the Bidassoa estuary, the Villa Mauresque in Hendaye, France, is a captivating blend of history, architecture, and culture. Known locally as Villa mauresque, this historical monument offers a fascinating glimpse into the past, standing proudly on the remnants of the town's old fortifications. Its unique Moorish design and storied past make it a must-see for anyone visiting this picturesque region of Nouvelle-Aquitaine.
The Villa Mauresque's story begins in the 19th century, amidst the backdrop of a town recovering from the ravages of war. Originally, the site was occupied by the redoubt of Hendaye, or vieux fort, constructed under the guidance of Vauban to protect the town from its Spanish neighbors. This fort was destroyed in 1793 during the tumultuous times of the French Revolution and the ensuing conflicts with Spain.
In 1865, the site was transformed when Count Jules de Polignac, a French military officer with notable service in Algeria, acquired a parcel of the fort's glacis. Using stones from the ruins, he constructed a small fortification in the Moorish style, giving birth to the Villa Mauresque. Despite financial troubles leading to its sale, the villa underwent significant transformations under its subsequent owners.
The villa's renaissance began with Dr. Camino, who purchased it in 1890. A prominent figure in Hendaye, Dr. Camino revitalized the villa, adding two residential floors and converting the courtyard into an indoor patio with a glass roof. This transformation marked the beginning of the villa's journey into becoming a cherished family estate.
In the 1950s, the villa saw further enhancements by Dr. Camino's daughter and her husband, Louis Légasse, a wealthy shipowner. They transformed it into a summer residence, adding an open-air patio that remains a central feature of the villa today. The Villa Mauresque has since stayed within the Légasse-Camino family, a testament to its enduring legacy.
One of the villa's most striking features is the statue of Ama Guadalupekoa, the patron saint of Fontarabie, nestled in an exterior niche. Sculpted by Serafin Esuain, this statue symbolizes the enduring friendship between the neighboring towns of Hendaye and Fontarabie, despite their historical conflicts.
Above the main entrance, visitors can admire the mermaid emblem, a nod to the Légasse family's roots in Navarre and their maritime heritage. This motif is a recurring symbol on their ships, homes, and even family tombs, linking the villa to the broader narrative of the family's storied past.
On the villa's terrace, overlooking the estuary and Fontarabie, stands the Canon of Txingudi. This naval cannon, retrieved from the sea, serves as a historical memento from the Battle of the Cardinaux in 1759. Each year, on September 8th, the cannon is fired in a ceremonial exchange with Fontarabie, commemorating the town's liberation from siege in 1638. It also plays a role in local festivities, adding a touch of historical drama to the celebrations.
The heart of the Villa Mauresque is its open-air patio, around which the villa's living spaces are arranged. The patio's columns, made from the yellow stone of Fontarabie, support the upper floors, creating a harmonious blend of indoor and outdoor spaces. This architectural feature is reminiscent of many traditional Basque buildings, providing a serene retreat for residents and visitors alike.
Within the villa, a small museum dedicated to the Légasse family offers a fascinating glimpse into their history as influential shipowners and political figures. The museum showcases photographs and memorabilia, chronicling their impact on the region and beyond.
Another intriguing room is Napoleon's Study, which commemorates significant historical events in the area, including the Siege of Saint Sebastian and the Battles of the Bidassoa and the Nivelle. The study features notable artworks, including The Wounded Eagle by Jean-Léon Gérôme and Cambronne at Waterloo by Charles Édouard Armand-Dumaresq, offering a poignant reflection on the region's turbulent past.
The villa's garden is a natural oasis, a palm grove nestled atop the remnants of Hendaye's fortifications. This tranquil space offers breathtaking views of the estuary, providing a perfect backdrop for contemplation and relaxation.
In conclusion, the Villa Mauresque is not just a historical monument but a living testament to the rich tapestry of history, culture, and architecture in Hendaye. Its walls echo stories of resilience, transformation, and enduring family legacy, making it an unmissable destination for anyone exploring the beauty and history of this charming region.
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