Du Pont residence Xanadu in Varadero

The "Xanadu Mansion" is located on the San Bernardino crags, was designed by architects Covarrocas and Govantes in July 1927. Owner of this exclusive estate was American millionaire Irenee Du Pont de Nemours. In 1927 at the age of 49, he retired from the chemical empire and started to look around for a quiet place to spend his retirement. Like many Americans, he found it in Cuba. The property included 8 km of virgin breaches, he chose the rocky hills of the San Bernardino crags to build his dream house. The four storey mansion, with 11 bedrooms and adjoining baths, three large terraces, seven balconies and a private dock was named "Xanadu" after the exotic Palace built by the legendary Chinese warrior and conqueror Kublas Khan, as described by the English poet Samuel Taylor. According to the legend, "Xanadu" was the ancient kingdom of the Tartars, extending from Central Asia to Western China and parts of Russia. In 1932 Du Pont installed the largest privately owned organ in all of Latin America. The machinery was installed in the basement and the organ worked automatically and manually. Two shafts carried the music to the mirador and the lobby, without inconveniencing the guests in their rooms. The furniture, including the organ, paintings and piano were supplied by Theodore Baily & Co. and Meras & Rico. Precious woods were brought especially from Santiago de Cuba for the ceilings, stair rails and columns, while the floors and bathrooms were done in Cuban, Italian and Spanish marble. The actual construction was entrusted to the Frederick Sneard Corporation finished December 1930. Dupont would stay at Xanadu for a few months each year, from early January. Today is a impressive hotel and Golf Course Club House. You can stay in Xanadu Mansion Book hotel now!

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