Villa "Catherine" – the dark beauty and secrets of an ancient estate in Quincy (16 photos + 1 video)

The rich have their quirks. And this luxurious Mediterranean castle, built for a millionaire and his huge dog, is proof of that.





Villa Catherine is a jumble of Mediterranean architectural styles chosen by an eccentric millionaire for his home - for himself and his dog.



W. George Metz was born in 1849, the son of a wealthy Quincy pharmacist. After the death of his parents, Metz set out on a two-year journey around the world. Inspired by Mediterranean architecture, he designed a house. The Villa Ben Ahben in Morocco served as inspiration, and the owner relied on photographs of that building and others in the same style.

The eccentric structure included other Mediterranean delights, such as a pool with an intricate mosaic at the bottom, occupying a large central courtyard, and a minaret - an exact copy of one he had seen on a Tunisian mosque. Metz lived virtually alone in the large estate. The recluse was accompanied only by his giant mastiff, Bingo.





After the death of his beloved pet, who at one time even claimed the title of the largest dog in the world, Metz sold the mansion, which subsequently changed hands many times until it finally fell into disrepair. A group calling itself "Friends of the Castle" purchased the house in 1978 and lovingly restored it to its original appearance and condition.

Although the bluff offers a beautiful view of the Mississippi River, the house has few windows, in keeping with its Moorish style. Although the building is now open for tours and private events, visitors should beware, as the house is rumored to be haunted by Bingo's ghost.



And not just him. According to local legend, the villa is named after a young girl named Katherine, who allegedly committed suicide on the estate's grounds. Her soul is said to be restless and wander the halls of the building, especially at night. In addition to Katherine, locals report other ghosts, including children playing on the lawn in front of the house and a mysterious man in period clothing watching guests from the windows.



Visitors to the villa have reported cold drafts in closed rooms, sudden power outages, and strange music or laughter coming from empty rooms.



With its unique atmosphere and paranormal phenomena, coupled with its unique cultural content, Villa Katrin continues to excite the minds of visitors, throwing up mysteries that may never be solved.





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