Nestled in the elegant seaside town of Beaulieu-sur-Mer, between Nice and Monaco, Villa Kérylos stands as one of the French Riviera’s most extraordinary cultural landmarks. This refined resort has long attracted royalty, film stars and political figures drawn by its sheltered coastline, luminous light and enviable Mediterranean climate.
Perched above the sea on the Baie des Fourmis, Villa Kérylos is a unique architectural masterpiece inspired by the noble houses of ancient Greece. Built at the beginning of the 20th century, the villa was conceived as a meticulous recreation of a Greek residence from the 2nd century BC, combining archaeological accuracy with Belle Époque craftsmanship. Every column, mosaic and fresco reflects a deep reverence for classical antiquity.
In 1966, Villa Kérylos was officially listed as a historic monument, recognising its exceptional architectural and cultural value. From January 2016, the villa came under the management of the Centre des monuments nationaux (CMN), becoming the 99th national monument in France to be overseen by this prestigious institution. This transition marked an important chapter in the preservation and promotion of Villa Kérylos, ensuring its continued protection as one of the Riviera’s cultural jewels.
Today, Villa Kérylos offers visitors a rare opportunity to step into an idealised vision of ancient Greece while enjoying sweeping views across the Mediterranean. Its harmonious blend of history, scholarship and Riviera elegance makes it an essential visit for anyone exploring Beaulieu-sur-Mer.
Beyond the glamour of nearby coastal resorts, Villa Kérylos embodies a quieter, more intellectual dimension of the French Riviera — one rooted in culture, artistry and timeless Mediterranean beauty.
