While the famous Getty Center Museum atop a hill in Brentwood, California draws over 1.3 million visitors annually, the Getty Villa in Malibu is really the road less traveled and should be on your short list to visit in Los Angeles.
The Getty Villa is an educational center and museum dedicated to the study of the arts and cultures of ancient Greece and Rome. It is a lesson in art, history and nature. And dedication. And architecture. And romance. I could go on….
The Villa is located on the Pacific Coast Highway, so if you go on a clear day you will have beautiful ocean views. They do free tours throughout the day of the gardens, exhibits and architecture. Check their calendar because in the summertime they have Shakespearean and Classical plays in their outdoor amphitheater, concerts and crafting classes. It’s a great place to meet up with friends.
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| Photo by The Consortium via Flickr |
My favorite of their Exhibitions is called ‘Glassmaking in Antiquity’. It is a remarkable collection of 180 pieces of antique glass from the beginning of glass production in Mesopotamia in 2500 B.C. to Byzantine glass of the 11th century. I believe I saw the oldest glass object that still exists today; astounding that it has been preserved. You’ll see the tools and techniques used in ancient glassmaking…. never stop learning!
Two days a week they have a social activity called ‘Tea by the Sea’. You’ll love this! It is inspired by the herbs, vegetables and fruits from the Villa’s authentically recreated Roman gardens. For a flat-fare of $36, enjoy a menu of savory panini, scones, tea breads, cakes, tarts, fruits and cheeses. They have a great tea selection, of course.
Admission to the Getty Villa is free, though reservations are required and last entry is 3pm. They are open 6 days a week (closed on Tuesdays). Here is their website for further details.
