Villa Aurélienne - Fréjus Tourist Office

The Villa Aurélienne: a Palladian masterpiece in the heart of Fréjus

The Villa Aurélienne, a masterpiece inspired by the Italian Renaissance, is one of only two Palladian villas in France! Built at the end of the 19th century, it takes its name from the Via Aurélia, the ancient Roman road that passed nearby. Perched at the top of an impressive wooded park, this unique villa combines ancient, classical and oriental influences, creating a unique ensemble. Initially a holiday villa, it has now become a vibrant center of the summer cultural scene in Fréjus.

But who could have launched this project?

Delving into the archives of Fréjus, we discover that a certain James Hiscutt Crossman, heir to an English fortune, had this “Château Aurélien” built in 1889. This wealthy British man, whose family owned one of the largest breweries in London at the time, engraved his initials, “JHC”, and his family motto “In Cruce Spes Mea” (In this cross I place my hope) on the bridge below the villa. A little nod to his British origins in the heart of the Côte d'Azur!

Built by Marseille architect Henri Lacreusette, who also designed magnificent villas in Saint-Aygulf and Saint-Raphaël, the Villa Aurélienne impressed with its 79 taxable windows, placing it among the largest villas in the region. However, the good life cost Crossman dearly, who was forced to sell his precious property to Madame Lepel-Cointet in 1892, a great Parisian socialite who organized legendary parties here, notably welcoming the writer André Gide in 1897. This series of sales continued, each owner adding their story to that of the villa, until it was bought by the City of Fréjus in 1988.

This majestic setting is a living testimony to Roman history and 19th century elegance.

An architectural masterpiece inspired by the Renaissance

Villa Aurelia is inspired by the masterpieces of architect Andrea Palladio, famous for his majestic residences in Veneto, such as Palazzo Chiericati. The curved arches, the symmetrical façade, and the courtyard with peristyle covered by a glass roof transport visitors to 16th-century Italy. Noble materials abound: black marble on the floor, precious wood marquetry, refined moldings, and an imposing central staircase testify to the opulence of this era.

In addition to its 1700 m² of living space, the villa is surrounded by a 24-hectare park where you can still find remains of the Roman aqueduct from the XNUMXst century AD, balustrades, bridges and three oriental-inspired pavilions. This majestic setting is a living testimony to Roman history and XNUMXth-century elegance.

From private residence to cultural center

Listed as a historical monument in 1989 and renovated in 1994, the Villa Aurélienne is today a dynamic cultural center in Fréjus. Thanks to the modern stained glass windows designed by master glassmaker Ducatez of Salerno, it now hosts official receptions, temporary exhibitions, and cultural events throughout the year. A place where past and present intertwine, for a timeless journey to the heart of the Riviera!

The park and the flower garden of the Villa Aurélienne

On its 24 hectares, it offers a walk through history, mixing nature and heritage thanks to the remains of the Roman aqueduct that cross its paths. From the entrance, majestic umbrella pines watch over it, escorted by cedars and strawberry trees; a little further on, it is the myrtles and old rose bushes that enchant visitors. The park reveals, throughout the seasons, an exceptional botanical richness: the Peruvian Squill, the Amaryllis belladonna and the botanical irises color the paths, while the freesias and wild orchids punctuate the decor with their subtle touches.

Nearby, the flower garden celebrates Mediterranean scents with its aromatic herbs and bouquets of flowers, sheltered by cypress trees. At the bend of a path, oriental-inspired factories and small ponds complete the charm of the place, testimonies of a landscaping where nature and style coexist harmoniously.

This botanical garden, unique in Provence, is a reservoir of life and precious biodiversity: it is home to 90% of Fréjus biotopes, including a protected pine forest and a lawn adorned with orchids. Here, Mediterranean plants and old varieties, such as almond trees currently being reintroduced, are preserved with ecological concerns. No fertilizers or treatments are used, and picking is prohibited, allowing each species to flourish in complete serenity, for the pleasure of visitors and respect for the surrounding nature.

A green setting in the heart of Fréjus, the Villa Aurélienne park is a true sanctuary of biodiversity.

the arches

from Aurelian Park

The Roman aqueduct of Fréjus is gradually revealed in the majestic shadow of the Villa Aurélienne park, a green setting where Mediterranean nature flourishes freely.

The park, with its 24 hectares open to the public, is crossed by these remains of the aqueduct, offering a fascinating experience where the past and nature meet.

At the entrance, umbrella pines impose their majesty, and further away, cedars, broom, cistus and myrtles add to the richness of the landscape.

The changing seasons reveal botanical treasures, with rare species such as Peruvian Squill, Neapolitan Cyclamen and wild orchids coloring the ground.

Following the aqueduct through the park, we notice that the arches become progressively lower, until they merge into the ground.

Around these remains, wild vegetation reasserts itself, but elements such as the vegetable garden, although sometimes neglected, recall the interaction between man and this nature which seems wild, but delicately tamed.

The contrast between the lush nature and these vestiges of Roman ingenuity transforms this place into a real journey through time, to the heart of the history of Fréjus, both wild and wonderfully preserved.

The Queen of the Hill of Villa Aureliana

Perched on the hill of Fréjus, the Villa Aurélienne is surrounded by a unique forest that defies the passage of time and galloping urbanization. Among the guardians of this haven of greenery, the majestic umbrella pine stands out as the undisputed king of these places. Its outstretched branches create a real natural canopy, and in certain clearings, the pines stand straight and proud, like a Roman legion on the march, protectors of this Mediterranean land.

By taking the small winding paths around the villa, visitors can admire century-old trees, witnesses to a precious and preserved biodiversity. Cork oaks and stone pines coexist in a meditative serenity, their massive and twisted trunks telling centuries of history. For nature lovers, the Villa Aurélienne offers much more than a simple architectural setting; it is a space where the raw and timeless beauty of the green giants of Fréjus reigns, hidden in the heart of this hill.

“Biography” of the Villa Aurélienne

Benoît Jarry and Florence Viard reveal for the first time the captivating story of the Villa Aurélienne, this emblematic residence of Fréjus built during the Belle Époque. Through anecdotes, secrets and adventures of the former owners, immerse yourself in the life of a place with a thousand facets, whose walls seem to whisper the stories of another time.

A great holiday read…

Can you visit the Villa Aurélienne?

Access to the interior of the Villa Aurélienne is only possible during guided tours conducted by the Fréjus Tourist Office or during temporary exhibitions. These tours offer the opportunity to discover the fascinating history of the villa and its interiors.

On the other hand, the Aurelian park, which surrounds the villa, is freely accessible every day (except when closed in strong winds). It is a pleasant place to walk and enjoy the beauty of the site.

Can dogs enjoy the tour?

Yes, dogs are allowed in the Aurélien park but also in the grounds of the Villa Aurélienne de Fréjus, provided that they are kept on a leash. We also ask that you ensure their comfort and well-being during your visit. It is advisable to inquire in advance in the event of special events that may result in different rules.

Villa Aurelienne

85 Avenue of Army General Calliès

83600 Fréjus

04 94 52 90 49

04 94 53 82 47

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