Villa Carmen Sylva - Monument

In the dunes of Domburg stands a beautiful national monument: Villa Carmen Sylva. This elegant 19th-century summer residence exudes history, art and royal allure. Although the villa is not open to visitors, the building itself is a wonderful sight during a walk through the dunes.

A glimpse into the history of Villa Carmen Sylva

• Built in 1885: The villa was originally constructed as Villa Maria on behalf of Cologne eau-de-cologne manufacturer Franz Aldenbruck (1837–1900).
• Architect with vision: Designed by Middelburg architect Johannes van Nieukerken (1854–1913), who later also created the iconic neighbouring Badpaviljoen.
• Summer house: In 1887 the villa became the property of German knife and scissors manufacturer Carl Erbschloe (1847–1902).
• Royal visit: The name of this national monument refers to Carmen Sylva, the pen name of Elisabeth von Wied (1843–1916), Queen of Romania.
  • In 1889 Queen Elisabeth spent a month in Domburg. She came partly to be treated by the famous physician Dr Johann Mezger, who enjoyed international fame at the time.
  • Elisabeth was world-famous as the author of Romanian fairy tales and poems, which she published under the name Carmen Sylva. During her stay in Domburg in September, her portrait even appeared on the front cover of the American magazine The Cosmopolitan.
  • The queen stayed in the now-demolished Villa Duinoord. At the invitation of the owner Carl Erbschloe, she spent her days at his Villa Maria, where she enjoyed the sea view and the tranquillity to write poetry.
  • Impressed by her presence and literary talent, Erbschloe decided to rename his villa in her honour. Villa Maria thus became Villa Carmen Sylva.

Architectural gem with a Mediterranean touch

Villa Carmen Sylva was built as a summer residence in an eclectic architectural style with elegant shapes and rich details.

• Warm colour palette: Orange brick with fine joints, white-plastered corners and ochre shutters (persiennes) create a Mediterranean atmosphere.
• Romantic veranda: The imposing white-painted veranda along the entire north façade, with a gently sloping roof, offers panoramic views over the dunes.
• Summer-house details: The villa has no cavity walls and no heating – clearly built for summer relaxation, light and air.
• National monument: Since 1997, Villa Carmen Sylva has been listed as a national monument. In 2001, the villa underwent a thorough restoration, carefully preserving its historic character and details. Today, it is still used as a summer residence and remains privately owned by a family from Wassenaar.

Practical information

• Location: In the dunes of Domburg, next to the monumental Badpaviljoen.
• Accessibility: The villa is privately owned and not open to the public.

Furthermore Villa Carmen Sylva is near the following sights: Badpaviljoen (±60 m), Gallery Zeevonk (±200 m), Old Town Hall (±250 m), Bust of Dr Mezger (±300 m) & Spa Domburg (±300 m).

For information

Noordstraat 39, Domburg