Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Costebelle villa, located in Barcelonnette in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, is an emblematic building of the first quarter of the 20th century. It is distinguished by its atypical Mediterranean architecture for the region, marked by pronounced dissymmetry, polychrome facades, a gazebo, and a flat roof. Its interior organization, centered around a veranda-lounge illuminated by a large bay window, reflects a modern design of home comfort, including even an integrated garage, a rarity for the time.

The villa was sponsored by Victor Garcin, a merchant from Barcelonnette who made a fortune in Mexico. Built between 1913 and 1914 by the Swiss-Italian architect B. Ramelli, it initially bears the name of Villa Miramonte before being renamed Villa Costebelle. Among its architectural features are a tower covered with a pavilion roof, a triple columned bay, and a rock garden factory. Although some modifications have altered its original state, such as the disappearance of Angers' slate roof, it remains a remarkable testimony to the Mediterranean influence and architectural innovation of its time.

Classified as a Historical Monument in 1986 for its facades and roofs, the villa illustrates the 20th century heritage in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence. Its inscription underlines its heritage value, both for its eclectic style and for its history related to Barcelonnettes, these migrants from the Ubaye valley went to make a fortune in Latin America before returning to invest in their native region. Today, private property, it continues to symbolize this unique mixture of local heritage and international openings.

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