Riviera Hotel Arch Ruins in Ormond Beach, Florida

Riviera Hotel Arch Ruins in Ormond Beach, Florida

The columns along Calle Grande in Ormond Beach were designed in 1924 to mimic ancient Roman ruins, complete with a marble-like finish. Above the arches, sculpted toga-wearing statesmen once stood, adding to the grand entrance feel. These arches marked the gateway to Rio Vista Resort — also known as Rio-Vista-on-the-Halifax and the Riviera Hotel — a Mediterranean-inspired development from the early 20th century. Even today, many of the columns re…