Villa Montezuma is both a vestige of San Diego's boomtown days and a testimony to the eccentric genius who built it. The house showcases highlights of the ornate Queen Anne/Late Victorian style of architecture with colonnades, towers and imposing facades. Even at its most superficial level, it is a fascinating relic.
However, the story behind Villa Montezuma's eccentric builder is equally fascinating. Jesse Shepard billed himself as an "intuitive musician," spiritualist and author. Having lived and supported himself in Europe through most of the 1870s solely by his personal charm and musical talents, Shepard decided to ingratiate himself with San Diego's cultural leaders to embrace the spirit of the new world. Shepard conceived of his Villa as a place where he could replicate the salons of Paris, as well as give concerts and conduct spiritual forums.
Because of Shepard, the Villa is a multifaceted gem for San Diegans. It sings a sepia colored tale of the city's frontier town beginnings. Alternately, many locals simply refer to it as "The Spooky House," due to the occult aspersions cast on its builder. In fact, several companies feature Montezuma in their "haunted tours."
In whatever light you choose to view it, Villa Montezuma is an intriguing vignette that lends complexity to California's southernmost city.
Attraction Information
- Hours:
- currently closed for renovation
- Contact:
- Location: 1925 K Street San Diego, CA
- Phone: 619-255-9367
- Website: www.villamontezuma.org
