Southern California is not only known for its beaches, theme parks, and cinema but also for its interest in art. The J.P. Getty Center is one of the many art galleries in Pasadena that showcases a remarkable collection of art and antiques. The museum was the result of the passion and zeal of Jean Paul Getty, an American industrialist and founder of the Getty Oil Company, who dedicated his life to searching for pieces that would add to his collection. Getty’s passion for art has become the main attraction for thousands of visitors from around the world.
The Getty Center in Los Angeles is accessible by car, taxi, or bus. A tram service takes visitors to the top of the hill where the museum complex is located, and a walk is also an option for those who prefer it. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, and admission is free. However, parking is $15, and visitors who wish to visit the Getty Villa on the same day need to present a pass to pay only once for parking.
The Getty Villa is located in Pacific Palisades/Malibu, and it is a completely different reality from the Getty Center. The building is inspired by the Villa Dei Papiri in Herculaneum, and its architectural details are influenced by ancient architecture. Besides being a museum of Etruscan, Roman, and Greek culture, the Getty Villa is also an educational center dedicated to the study of the arts.
The Getty Center houses paintings, sculptures, furniture, decorative arts, drawings, manuscripts, and photographs from Greek, Roman, and Etruscan art to the 21st century. Visitors can explore the museum’s collection through independent or guided tours, including the beautiful Central Gardens. The gardens were created by Robert Irwin, an American artist, and feature tree-lined paths, fountains, a stream, and a waterfall. It is possible to see over 500 varieties of plants of a thousand colors, including cacti, lavender, sage, and bougainvillea, among others. The gardens offer a magnificent view of the Santa Monica Mountains, the Pacific Ocean, and other landmarks in the distance.
The Getty Center, part of the J. Paul Getty Museum in Los Angeles, California, USA, 1997. (Photo by Barbara Alper/Getty Images)
In conclusion, the J.P. Getty Center is a must-visit destination for art lovers and tourists visiting Southern California. The museum’s remarkable collection of art and antiques, the beautiful natural setting, and the educational center dedicated to the study of the arts make the Getty Center a unique and unforgettable experience. Visitors can enjoy the gardens, take a guided tour or explore the museum’s collection independently
