It must be one of the most melancholic and deeply depressing sights in Corfu, the derelict red mansion called Villa Rossa, which really looks much grimmer than an utter ruin.
Building of the splendid mansion had begun in 1864. It was probably the first house in Corfu to benefit from electricity, generated for the Aspioti factory. It became one of the most prestigious centres of social life for the high society of Corfu at one time, with grand receptions, sometimes attended by members of the Greek Royal Family and visited by the King of Greece, according to Tasos Papanastasatos (in his tribute to Maria Aspioti, Porfyras, January-March 2002).
Writers, artists and intellectuals were also warmly welcomed there.
It was owned by the Aspioti family. Maria Aspioti (1909-2000) lived there and entertained many British visitors, friends and colleagues like Francis King and Lawrence Durrell. As Director of the British Council Corfu branch from 1945-1955, Maria (or Marie) was in contact with leading figures of the British arts world throughout that decade, and later.
It is probably far too late now for the restoration of Villa Rossa, although extensive studies and surveys have been made, and although the building was bought by the Greek state in 1997; it is the responsibility of Corfu Prefecture, as far as I have understood the somewhat complicated situation.
The online “Corfu Today” reported in September 2008 that “abandonment has led to the situation that we all see today. Outside the wretched image is visible to everyone, while the internal situation is much worse for those who know.”
The catalogue of neglect is appalling. The building is rotting and about to collapse, which is presumably why it is now propped up and surrounded by supporting iron girders.
The responsible authorities talk of the ‘immediate restoration’ of Villa Rossa as their prime concern.
Much data has been collected. Worthwhile and functional uses have been proposed for the building, if and when it is restored.
There are other unsafe and melancholic sites in Corfu, such as the Olive Oil Factory in Mandouki. I am sure readers can suggest many more.
There may be competing priorities in this difficult economic climate, but somebody should surely do something!
Report in Greek Η ΒΙΛΛΑ ΡΟΣΣΑ ΣΤΗ ΚΕΡΚΥΡΑ
Update July 2011, by John's Corfu World
Update 16 June 2012. The local Corfu press (Enimerosi, Epikairotita, Ta Kerkyraika Nea) reports at length today that a committee decision has been made (14 June) to convert the abandoned Villa Rossa into a Museum of Corfu Town. See ERT
Let's wait and see.
Why don't we literally play "the blues" for the villa - a blues concert to start to raise soem money, however insignificant in the great scheme of things?
ReplyDeleteSuch fund-raising concerts would be an excellent idea to raise the consciousness and to focus the attention of the public and the authorities on the various derelict buildings around the island.
ReplyDeleteNeeds good organisation. Large sums of money are required for the restoration work, as well as the political will. But it would get the ball rolling.
Hey , large sums of money are NOT my bag (more of necessity than lack of opportunity!) but, as seems to be the way of things, when politicians fail to get their act together, artists historically step in on causes that they feel passionate about. Might not equal "Live Aid" in July 1985, but could certainly raise awareness, shame a few people, and get some "jingling" in the coffers! I'm sure between your, Scaachi's, and my contacts, we can pull off SOMETHING to help preserve the architectural legacy of this wonderful island, not to mention the musical one...
ReplyDelete