It appears there might be some confusion regarding the location of Axel Munthe's renowned residence. While you inquired about his house in Venice, Italy, Dr. Munthe's most celebrated home is Villa San Michele, situated on the island of Capri, near Naples. There is no prominent record of Axel Munthe owning a notable residence in Venice. Therefore, I will provide a detailed historical account of Villa San Michele in Capri.

Villa San Michele: Axel Munthe's Architectural Masterpiece on Capri

Villa San Michele stands as a testament to the vision and dedication of Dr. Axel Munthe, a Swedish physician and author. Perched 327 meters above sea level in Anacapri, the villa offers panoramic views of the Bay of Naples and the Sorrentine Peninsula. Constructed at the turn of the 20th century, it embodies Munthe's dream of creating a sanctuary open to nature's beauty.

Axel Munthe: The Man Behind the Vision

Born in Oskarshamn, Sweden, in 1857, Axel Munthe pursued medical studies in France and established a successful practice in Paris. His humanitarian efforts during the 1884 cholera epidemic in Naples highlighted his commitment to aiding those in need. Munthe's deep appreciation for art, history, and nature profoundly influenced the creation of Villa San Michele.

Inception and Construction of Villa San Michele

Munthe first visited Capri in 1885 and was captivated by its charm. He chose to build his villa on the ruins of an ancient chapel dedicated to San Michele. Collaborating with local builders and artisans, Munthe designed a residence that seamlessly integrated classical architecture with the island's natural landscape. The villa features Roman and Caprese influences, including a main house, extensive gardens, and a restored chapel.

Architectural and Artistic Highlights

  • Design Philosophy: Munthe envisioned his home as a space "open to the sun, to the wind, and the voice of the sea," emphasizing light and harmony with nature.

  • Artifacts Collection: The villa houses an eclectic collection of artifacts, including Roman sculptures, Egyptian sphinxes, and Etruscan relics, reflecting Munthe's passion for antiquities.

  • Gardens: The lush gardens are adorned with Mediterranean flora, pergolas, and offer breathtaking vistas, embodying Munthe's vision of a tranquil retreat. ​

Literary Legacy: "The Story of San Michele"

In 1929, Munthe published his memoir, "The Story of San Michele", chronicling his life experiences and the creation of the villa. The book became an international bestseller, translated into numerous languages, and continues to captivate readers with its blend of autobiography, philosophy, and reflections on nature and humanity.

Villa San Michele Today

Bequeathed to the Swedish state upon Munthe's death in 1949, Villa San Michele now operates as a museum under the auspices of the Swedish Institute in Rome. It serves as a cultural hub, hosting concerts, exhibitions, and providing residencies for artists and scholars. Visitors can explore the meticulously preserved rooms, gardens, and enjoy the serene ambiance that Munthe so cherished.

Villa San Michele stands as a harmonious blend of art, architecture, and nature, reflecting Dr. Axel Munthe's multifaceted legacy as a physician, humanitarian, and aesthete. Its enduring allure continues to inspire and enchant visitors from around the world.

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