Villa Grock: the magic of the circus framed in Imperia

In the heart of the Ligurian Riviera di Ponente, in Imperia, stands a place where imagination takes shape and the smile — sometimes tinged with melancholy — is the true star: Villa Grock. This extraordinary residence, once home to the legendary Swiss clown Adrian Wettach, known as Grock, is today a genuine sanctuary dedicated to the art of the circus and to the figure of the clown, housing the Clown Museum.

An Art Nouveau dream among exotic gardens

Villa Grock is unlike any other villa. It is the tangible expression of an eclectic genius who managed to infuse every corner of his home with the soul of the circus and his own artistic vision. Built between 1927 and 1932, the villa is a magnificent example of Art Nouveau architecture, enriched with elements recalling Persian, Baroque, and Rococo styles. Grock himself, with his unmistakable flair, designed many of the details — from the symbolic decorations to the ceilings of the music halls, painted by his own hand.

The true enchantment reveals itself in the oriental-style park surrounding the villa. Here, among palm and cedar trees that lend an exotic touch, pathways and architectural structures evoke the circus world. Visitors can admire spheres reminiscent of clown balls, a charming little temple, and a splendid fountain of youth.

At the heart of the garden lies a central pond with a small island, connected by an oriental-inspired bridge, where Grock loved to fish and swim. The entire property invites visitors to lose themselves in a dreamlike world, between laughter and nostalgia, culture and physical artistry.

The Clown Museum: a journey into the soul of the circus

After years of neglect, Villa Grock was restored and brought back to life as the home of the Clown Museum. This cultural project, based on modern technologies, offers an immersive and imaginative journey dedicated to circus professionals and, above all, to the art of clowning.

Through interactive and evocative installations, visitors are guided on a creative path exploring the lightness of gesture, expression, irreverent humor, and music that have defined the clown’s art. The museum celebrates the figure of Grock, recognized as one of the greatest clowns in history, while also widening its scope to the entire circus world — made of sounds, colors, and fragrances that have always captivated human imagination. The exhibition traces the history of this ancient art, from its origins in small comedic performances aimed at provoking laughter to its modern revival through talents such as Oleg Popov and the rise of the new circus.

Grock: the man behind the mask

Adrian Wettach, born in 1880 in Switzerland, became Grock, a name that came to define both his public persona and his pivotal role in the history of circus entertainment. His life was an ode to performance, music, and comedy. Villa Grock, which he affectionately called Villa Bianca in honor of his daughter, was his refuge — a place where his creativity took shape even beyond the stage. He died here in 1946, leaving behind a house and garden that still proudly bear the mark of their eccentric owner, radiating that same famous — and at times melancholy — smile.

A place to visit

Villa Grock and the Clown Museum are managed by the Municipality of Imperia and are open to the public with seasonal hours. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online, and the entire museum is wheelchair accessible. For those wishing to immerse themselves even further in this unique atmosphere, a café is available inside the museum.

Visiting Villa Grock means not only admiring an architectural and landscape masterpiece but also diving into the fascinating world of the circus, discovering the story of a great artist, and letting yourself be carried away by the magic that only the clown’s art can create. It is an unforgettable experience for both adults and children, continuing to celebrate the eternal spirit of joy and wonder.

Villa Grock: where the circus dream comes to life

Address: Via Fanny Roncati Carli, Imperia

Opening hours:

• Monday: 10:00 – 13:00
• Tuesday: closed
• Wednesday – Thursday: 17:00 – 21:30
• Friday – Sunday: 10:00 – 13:00 and 14:00 – 18:00
  Prices:
• Full ticket €6.00
• Reduced ticket €4.00
  Contacts: +39 340 495 6218
  Website: https://villagrock.imperiamusei.it/

Cover photo credits: Official Imperia Museums website