Known as the age of “rebirth” and revival of interest in ancient times, the Renaissance period marks an era that created major contributions in the field of arts, philosophy, mathematics, science, and music.
It was a time in Western European history wherein interest in classical arts was “born anew”.
Moreover, this particular era is also notable for the construction of what we refer to now as historical monuments and distinctive architectural designs and structures all across Rome.
The Renaissance period has major influences on a lot of building designs and architecture all over the world. There are certain structural elements that could easily be traced way back to the Renaissance period such as symmetry of windows, alignment of structures, use of parallel elements, and extensive use of columns.
Even the relatively new and subsequent architectures didn’t just come out of nowhere. Most of their design concepts were greatly influenced by Renaissance styles. These characteristics are likewise present in some of Miami’s notable landmarks.
Landmarks and Architectural Structures in Miami with Renaissance Designs
- Vizcaya Museum & Gardens in Miami
The Vizcaya Museum & Gardens in Miami is an Italian Renaissance-inspired estate that was built in 1916. It was originally constructed to serve as the winter residence of industrialist James Deering.
It consists of more than 10 acres of expansive formal gardens with fountains surrounding a villa. It consists of 34 rooms that feature 15th through 19th-century antique furniture and ornamental designs.
Vizcaya is officially designated as a national historic landmark in Miami-Dade County by the National Register of Historic Places.
Entering the vicinity will make you feel like you’ve traveled back in time with its classical and romantic themes and stunning renaissance concept.
The place in itself reflects the era of classic “rebirth” from its huge parallel columns, antique furniture, massive open space, stone structures, and breathtaking views.
- The Venetian Pool
The Venetian Pool is a huge and lavish Italianate swimming pool that is open to the public. It was formerly a stone quarry that contains over 800,000 gallons of spring-fed water.
The Italian-inspired design and historical aura make it one of the most distinctive places to visit in Miami. It is currently regarded as a historic U.S. public swimming pool because of its elaborate history.
Being in this place makes you feel that you are in an entirely different era or in a faraway Mediterranean land with its wrought-iron balconies, symmetrical design of ornamental elements, antique pots and lamp posts, terra cotta roofs, and stucco buildings.
The Venetian-Style Bridge and classic mooring posts add a touch of Italian Renaissance design to this landmark and serve as some of the highlights. Guests can literally swim amidst caves and waterfalls and enjoy the picturesque classic backdrop. To date, it is listed as a National Historic Landmark.
- The Villa, Casa Casuarina
Also known as the Versace Mansion, Casa Casuarina is a property that was built in 1930. Since 2015, it has started to operate as a luxurious hotel. It features Mediterranean Revival style which is a design concept that incorporates references from Spanish Renaissance, Italian Renaissance, Spanish Colonial, and Arabic Andalusian architecture among other design influences.
Casa Casuarina features grandiose entrance steps where Italian fashion icon Gianni Versace was shot by serial killer Andrew Cunanan. Other highlights include the romantic balcony, stunning details such as plant pots and metallic railings, wall design concepts that include fruit bowls and pine cones, Renaissance-inspired alleyways, and other perimeter wall designs.