The Getty Villa Museum is modeled after a first-century Roman country house.  The museum was built in the early 1970’s.  J. Paul Getty worked closely with the architectural consultants and designers.

The day we were at the museum it was a gloomy overcast day.  A perfect day to take pictures but, the view of the spectacular Pacific Ocean was masked by dense fog.  Besides the remarkable art exhibitions, there are magnificent gardens that surround the museum. And this day, that’s where I wanted to spend my time.

The gardens are my favorite place, they are so quiet and serene.  Sometimes I go just to walk the gardens, never entering in to the museum.

Outer Peristyle

This 220 foot long reflecting pool is flanked by bronze sculptures.  There are also two arbors across from each other flanking the middle of the reflecting pool.  The garden paths are lined with boxwood hedges and circular stone benches.  This garden is found when you exit the south doors of the museum.

One of the two arbors.Had it not been an overcast day, this is the area you would be able to see the Pacific Ocean.  See the hanging bronze lanterns?  They are an exact replica of those carried on the streets in Pompeii.

In the above photo, the statue on the left is the Messenger Hermes.  The bottom photo is a close up of his foot with wings.

One of the circular stone benches.  The masonry work is perfection.

The East Garden

This garden is the most tranquil space in all the gardens.  It is shaded by sycamore and laurel trees.  There are soothing sounds of the splashing water from the two sculptural fountains.  The mosaic feature behind the fountain is stunning.  The mosaic is an exact replica of the one located in the House of the Great Fountain in Pompeii.

The Herb Garden

The herb garden is a garden with fruit trees, grape vines, and herbs that were used by the ancient romans for cooking, medicine and ceremonies.  Located at the back of the garden is a small pool of water lilies.  This is a great spot to bird watch.

The grape vines.

This is the one statue at the Villa you are encourage to touch.   She is in her own private alcove located outside of the museum.  The alcove wall is encased by stones.

Corinthian Columns located along the Peristyle garden.

This corridor has such beautiful arches.

If you get a chance to visit this beautiful place, make sure you give yourself enough time to enjoy the magnificent gift that J. Paul Getty gave to us.  Slow down and enjoy the moment.

Admission is free: You will need to make a reservation to get an advance timed-entry ticket

The parking fee ~ $15.00

For hours & reservations, click here

17985 Pacific Coast Highway

Pacific Palisades, California 90272

310.440.7300