Ca' d'Zan facts for kids
Quick facts for kids |
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Ca' d'Zan
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U.S. Historic district
Contributing property |
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Cà d'Zan - the bay front façade of the living room on the western elevation and marble terrace
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 Location in Florida
Location in the United States
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| Location | Sarasota, Florida |
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| Architectural style | Venetian Gothic revival |
| Part of | Caples'-Ringlings' Estates Historic District (ID82001039) |
| Designated CP | 15 December 1982 |
Ca' d'Zan is a beautiful mansion in Sarasota, Florida. It sits right next to Sarasota Bay. This amazing house was the winter home of John Ringling and his wife Mable. John Ringling was famous for owning a circus, developing land, and collecting art.
Ca' d'Zan is built in a style called Venetian Gothic revival. This means it looks like the grand old buildings you might see in Venice, Italy.
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Discovering Ca' d'Zan's History
John and Mable Ringling really loved Venice, Italy. They chose this spot overlooking Sarasota Bay because it reminded them of Venice's beautiful lagoon. The name "Ca' d'Zan" actually means "House of John" in the Venetian language.
The Ringlings wanted a special winter home in Florida. They also planned to build a museum for their huge collection of art. Mable's beautiful rose garden was the first part of their dream home to be finished.
The Design and Building of Ca' d'Zan
The Ringlings hired a New York architect named Dwight James Baum in 1924 to design their house. A local Sarasota builder, Owen Burns, constructed it. The house was finished in 1926.
Building Ca' d'Zan cost about $1.5 million back then. This was a lot of money! The house's design includes details inspired by famous Venetian buildings. These include the Doge's Palace and the Ca' d'Oro. The Ringlings also filled their home with unique items they collected from all over the world.
Ca' d'Zan: A Historic Landmark
In 1982, Ca' d'Zan became part of the Caples'-Ringlings' Estates Historic District. This district is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This means it's a very important historical site.
The American Institute of Architects (AIA) also recognized Ca' d'Zan. In 2012, they put it on their list of "Florida Architecture: 100 Years. 100 Places."
Ca' d'Zan has even been featured in a movie! Parts of the 1998 film Great Expectations were filmed here. The house was used as "Ms. Dinsmoor's house" in the movie.
The mansion was carefully restored in 2002. The goal was to make it look just like it did when the Ringlings lived there.
Gallery
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Ringling Museum Cà d'Zan
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Ringling Museum Cà d'Zan
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Entrance foyer
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Court
Images for kids
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Detail of Ceiling Mural, Portrait of John and Mable Ringling, 3rd floor Playroom, Ca' d'Zan
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Front Gate
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Front of Estate
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Front Door
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Court
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Tap Room
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Breakfast Room
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Kitchen
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John Ringling Family Cemetery
