Ca’ d’Zan Mansion | Sarasota

Ca’ d’Zan, which translates to "House of John" in Venetian dialect, is a Mediterranean Revival-style mansion located in Sarasota, Florida. It was the winter residence of John Ringling, the famous circus magnate and co-founder of the Ringling Brothers Circus, and his wife, Mable Ringling. The mansion is a significant part of the Ringling Estate, which also includes the Ringling Museum of Art, the Circus Museum, and Bayfront Gardens.

The mansion was designed by architect Dwight James Baum and constructed between 1924 and 1926. The Ringlings used the mansion as their primary residence during the winter months. After Mable's death in 1929, the mansion went through several periods of neglect, with renovations being done over time to restore it to its original splendor. A major restoration effort was undertaken from 1996 to 2002, costing $15 million, returning the mansion to its former glory.

Architectural Highlights

Ca' d'Zan is renowned for its unique and eclectic architectural style, blending various influences from Venetian Gothic, Italian Renaissance, Moorish, and Spanish designs. The mansion's layout and design reflect John Ringling's grandeur and Mable Ringling's passion for art and beauty.

Exterior Design: The mansion features 36,000 square feet of space and 56 rooms, making it a grand architectural feat. The façade is adorned with vibrant terra cotta tiles produced by the O.W. Ketcham Terra Cotta Works. The intricate designs on these tiles include floral motifs, animals, and classical patterns that pay homage to the art and design of Renaissance Venice.

Interior Features: The mansion's interior is equally impressive, showcasing an array of luxurious and artistic elements:

Grand Entrance: The mansion’s entrance door is made from Renaissance-style walnut and leads into a 50x65-foot Court with a 30-foot ceiling.

Marble Bayfront Terrace: One of the most iconic features of the mansion is its marble terrace, offering stunning views of Sarasota Bay.

Chandelier: A crystal chandelier from the original Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in New York hangs in the mansion, adding to the opulence of the space.

Aeolian Organ: A 2,289-pipe Aeolian organ is hidden behind tapestries in the mansion. This rare and beautiful instrument adds a touch of musical elegance to the mansion’s interiors.

The mansion's design and its grand furnishings reflect the Ringlings' wealth, taste, and their love for art and culture.

Legacy and Restoration

After the death of Mable Ringling in 1929, the mansion went through periods of decline and neglect. The Ringling family left the mansion after John Ringling's death in 1936, and the estate was eventually transferred to the State of Florida. Over time, the mansion suffered from various issues, including deterioration from weather and age.

A major restoration project began in 1996 and continued until 2002. The $15 million project was necessary to return the mansion to its original splendor and address structural and aesthetic issues. The restoration team took great care to preserve the mansion’s historical accuracy, restoring its unique architectural elements, including the terra cotta tiles, original woodwork, and stained-glass windows.

As part of the restoration efforts, the Florida State Historic Preservation Office worked to ensure that the mansion remained as authentic to its original design as possible, while updating its infrastructure to preserve it for future generations.

Visiting Ca’ d’Zan

Ca’ d’Zan is open to the public and offers visitors the chance to step back in time and experience the grandeur of the Ringling family's life. It is part of the Ringling Museum of Art Complex, and admission includes access to the mansion, the museum, the circus museum, and the bayfront gardens.

Location: The mansion is located at 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota, FL 34243.

Hours: The mansion is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Visitors can explore the house at their own pace, or take a guided tour for a deeper understanding of the history and design of the mansion.

Admission: General admission includes access to Ca' d'Zan, the Ringling Museum of Art, the Circus Museum, and the Bayfront Gardens. The guided tours are available for a more in-depth exploration of the mansion’s rich history, architecture, and its role in the Ringling family’s life.

Contact: For more information, visitors can contact the Ringling Museum at 941-359-5700.

The Experience

When visiting Ca’ d’Zan, guests can enjoy an unforgettable experience. The mansion's beautiful bayfront terrace offers stunning views of Sarasota Bay, and its grand interior spaces showcase the Ringlings’ love of art and design. The Belvedere Tower, accessible to visitors, provides panoramic views of the entire estate and the surrounding natural beauty of Sarasota.

In addition to the mansion, the Ringling Estate features lush Bayfront Gardens, which provide a tranquil setting for visitors to relax and explore after touring the mansion.

Summary

Ca' d'Zan is a testament to the opulence and grandeur of the Ringling family. The mansion is a stunning example of architectural elegance, combining various styles such as Venetian Gothic, Italian Renaissance, and Moorish influences. Today, it serves as a historical landmark and is open to the public, allowing visitors to experience the lavish lifestyle of the Ringling family and the beauty of Sarasota's waterfront. Whether you’re exploring the mansion’s intricate designs or enjoying the surrounding gardens and panoramic views, Ca’ d'Zan offers a unique opportunity to step into the past and learn about one of Florida’s most influential families.