Think you need to travel to Europe to explore a historic, Venetian Gothic-style palazzo? Think again! About three and a half hours from Miami, in coastal Sarasota, sits an opulent 1920s waterfront mansion transporting guests back to the glamorous age.
Known as Ca’ d’Zan, which translates to “House of John” in the Venetian dialect, the five-story palace was completed in 1926 by John Ringling of the Ringling Bros. Circus, alongside his wife, Mable.
Featuring sweeping terraces, Mediterranean Revival influences and 56 rooms that include five guest suites, a service wing, ballroom, play room, tap room and a great hall, the result is a jaw-dropping structure of the Roaring Twenties. A crystal chandelier from the original Waldorf-Astoria Hotel and a large ceiling mural by Willy Pogany also decorate the mansion.
Inspired by their travels through Italy and deep love for the Doge’s Palace, Mable oversaw almost every detail of the 36,000-square-foot building, which would become the couple’s luxurious winter retreat. After major restoration projects in recent years, its glazed terracotta tiles and grand stained-glass windows remain as vivid as they were a century ago..
How to visit this Venetian marvel
Located on a massive 66-acre estate, Ca’ d’Zan is actually one of the earliest buildings at the sprawling Ringling Museum complex. Visitors making the road trip can easily spend an entire day getting lost on the grounds!
Beyond the mansion itself, a ticket grants you access to Mable’s secret rose garden, the Circus Museum and Museum of Art, which was also completed in John Ringling’s lifetime. Check it out here.
📍 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL 34243
