Villa Adriana as Collection. Hearst Castle and The Getty Center

Villa Adriana, an ancient Roman site built by Emperor Hadrian near Tivoli, has evolved into a powerful symbol inspiring modern literature, film, and architecture. Its influence extends to contemporary structures like Hearst Castle and the Getty Center, both designed as 'villa-museums' that blend art, history, and identity. While Hearst Castle reflects a collector's desire to control history through eclectic styles, the Getty Center reimagines ancient concepts with modern design elements such as travertine stone and overlapping grids. This essay highlights Villa Adriana's enduring legacy as a timeless link between past and present, demonstrating its capacity to inspire new narratives and spaces.

Froio, G. (2026). Villa Adriana as Collection. Hearst Castle and The Getty Center. Athens Journal of Architecture, 12(2), 229. https://doi.org/10.30958/aja.12-2-5