The palatial winter home of John and Mable Ringling in Sarasota, Florida

Unlike Europe, there are few homes that are called palaces in the United States. The John and Mable Ringling winter home in Sarasota, Florida would certainly qualify to be named as such. In fact it had a name. C`a d'Zan which means "House of John" in the Venetian dialect was the title for this palatial home.

My mother and I were visiting with my aunt and uncle who reside in Florida part of the year. They decided to show us this home and the Ringling Museum of Art and the Circus Museum which are all contained on the grounds of this massive estate.

The address: 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota, Florida 34243

It sits on the waterfront of Sarasota Bay and the West Facade of C`a d'Zan overlooking the water is spectacular to say the least! Intricate marble flooring and carved decorated railings would have greeted the guests arriving by boat. As is often the case, the side of a home (or mansion) facing the water is the most elaborate, and C`a d'Zan does not disappoint.

Few people except the very wealthiest could have had a home like this constructed. A circus empire helped create the wealth that the Ringling's enjoyed.

Architectural styles influenced by Italian Renaissance, Venetian Gothic, Baroque as well as modern merged to create this grand palace (winter home) commissioned by John and Mable Ringling.

The extensive 66 acre estate contains beautiful gardens and museums...the Ringling Museum of Art and later, the Circus Museum. The estate including the mansion, grounds, museums and contents were donated to the State of Florida for the benefit of its citizens after the demise of John Ringling. Mable had preceded him in death.

The legacy left behind for everyone to enjoy consists of a wonderful collection of eloquent furnishings and art as well as the architecture itself which can be admired for its intricate designs and workmanship.

We were visiting there in 1997 and at that time C`a d'Zan was being restored to return to its 1920's appearance.

The Court which is the magnificent 30 foot high living room is pretty much the central focal point of the house with the other rooms organized around it. Everywhere one looks details emerge like the onyx faced columns on the first floor which become covered with terra cotta on the second floor. The ceilings are works of art and elaborate designs of paint and inlaid tile and other materials have one gazing up.

The windows are a colorful mixture of stained glass and unique designs.

Various beautiful woods were utilized throughout the house.

The furnishings and paintings were the best that money could buy and fill each room with beauty and a sense of luxury.

Many of the rooms are open for public viewing. Prepare to be overwhelmed with opulent views of how the Ringling's lived.

This historic building is now utilized for many events including such things as regularly scheduled teas, lunches, etc. on the bay-side patio. Memberships can be purchased and one can enjoy the ambiance of living like the very wealthy...if even for simply a moment in time.