Rates for staying at the former mansion of Gianni Versace, now named Villa Casa Casuarina, start at $749 a night.
Tragedy shook the world of fashion and the Versace family when serial killer Andrew Cunanan murdered Gianni Versace on the front steps of the designer’s Miami Beach Mansion back in 1997. In the following years, those very same steps are a tourist attraction for both followers of the story or fans of FX’s American Crime Story miniseries. Now, visitors are able to spend a night at the gorgeous mansion-turned luxury boutique hotel.
Built by Mayflower descendant and Standard Oil heir Alden Freeman, the three-storey building was originally built as an apartment complex in 1930. After spotting the original house while on a family holiday, Gianni Versace purchased the building for $2.95 million in 1992 and the neighbouring Revere Hotel for $3.7 million. Renovations worth an eye-watering $32 million were then made, which included the demolishing of the Revere to make way for a pool, garden, and new south wing of the home. He also transformed the 24 apartment units into 10 regal suites – some that belonged to family members and loved ones like Donatella, and others that have hosted some of the world’s most well-known people such as Madonna and Princess Diana.
In 2013, the villa ended up being sold for $41.5 million, and was reopened as the Villa Casa Casuarina – a boutique hotel that spares no expense in providing a luxurious experience. From amenities such as spa services, a pool made with 24-karat gold tiles and a grand Mediterranean restaurant, it’s truly a sight to behold. Take a peek below for more of what you can expect at the Casa Villa Casuarina:
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For more information or if you’re interested in marking this down for future travel plans, visit their website here.
Photos: Villa Casa Casuarina