The Villa, Casa Casuarina, (also known as Versace Mansion) is a property previously owned by the late Gianni Versace at Ocean Drive in the Miami Beach Architectural District, Florida. Nowadays it operates as a boutique hotel known as The Villa, Casa Casuarina.
History
The house was built in 1930 in Mediterranean Revival style, commissioned by architect Alden Freeman. There is a rumour that during construction a time capsule was hidden in one of the walls. When Freeman died in 1937 the house was bought by Jacques Amsterdam who changed it into an apartment building naming it The Amsterdam Palace.In 1992 it was purchased by Gianni Versace to become his residence in South Beach. He restored and expanded the building by adding a south wing and a pool. Versace completely redecorated it. A lot of famous people stayed in the house. On July 15, 1997 Versace was killed in front of this house by Andrew Cunanan.
The Mansion now operates as a hotel, restaurant and event location. The restaurant is Il Sole at The Villa Casa Casuarina.
