Step into the enchanting world of the Villas Hotel. This isn’t just a hotel. It’s a living fairytale. Right here in Shanghai’s heart stands the Hengshan Moller Villa. Built in 1936 it’s a testament to a unique blend of European and Eastern architecture.
The Villas Hotel wasn’t always a hotel. It began as the private residence of Eric Moller. A wealthy British merchant prince he made his fortune in Shanghai. He was originally from Sweden but became one of Shanghai’s wealthiest. He loved his youngest daughter dearly. She dreamed of a castle like those in Andersen’s fairy tales. To make her dream come true Moller commissioned this stunning villa.
The design is a masterpiece. It seamlessly integrates Norwegian architecture with traditional Chinese elements. Imagine soaring steeples and flowing eaves. Picture snow-capped peaks and plateaus. Think colorful firebricks adorning the uneven walls. The result is truly breathtaking.
The hotel’s beauty extends beyond the building itself. A vast 2000 square meter garden surrounds the Villas Hotel. There’s a bronze statue of a racehorse. This horse played a crucial role in Moller’s rise to wealth. Its remains lie beneath the statue. Scattered throughout the garden are meteorites and stone animals. A petrified wood piece over one hundred million years old is a remarkable sight. A beacon at the gate symbolized Moller’s shipping business. A greenhouse with central heating provided a beautiful space for indoor flowers.
The Villas Hotel has a fascinating history. It was even briefly used as headquarters for a corruption investigation. It later reopened as a luxury hotel.
Today the Villas Hotel stands as a symbol of Shanghai’s rich past. It’s a luxurious hotel but more than that it is a piece of history. A story woven from dreams ambition and a father’s love. It continues to captivate and inspire all who visit. Enjoy your stay at this remarkable place.