Palladian villas in the Veneto region (Italy) captivate with their timeless beauty. Designed in the mid-1500s by architect Andrea Palladio for the wealthiest families, these mansions were surrounded by vineyards and cultivated fields. These villas were splendid residences nestled in the countryside or among the hills (Euganean and Berici), where noble families could flaunt their wealth while enjoying the comforts and relaxation of these imposing, majestic and delightful retreats. Between 1994 and 1996, twenty-four of these villas were included in the UNESCO World Heritage list.
We have chosen 5 of them to discover, through an itinerary that starts in Venice, passes through Padua and Treviso, along the Brenta Riviera and then ends just a short walk from Vicenza downtown. Let’s discover the stories and legends hidden in these places.
Palladian Villas – Villa Foscari
After departing from Venice, your journey takes you to Mira where your first stop is Villa Foscari, located near the Naviglio del Brenta. The villa was commissioned by its owner, Niccolò Foscari, with the intention of creating a waterway connection that would allow visitors to arrive by boat directly from the center of Venice. The villa’s frescoes are not to be missed, as they depict various mythological characters.
Legend has it that the Villa gained its nickname “Malcontenta” (meaning “displeased”) due to the story of a Lady from the Foscari household. She was allegedly confined within the villa’s walls as punishment for her extravagant behavior. It is said that she spent the final 30 years of her life in isolation, never leaving the villa or being seen from its windows.
Palladian Villas – Villa Contarini
After leaving Venice, you move westward towards the province of Padua. Here you find Villa Contarini, one of the largest Venetian villas in the Baroque style, surrounded by a 40-hectare park with small lakes, shrines, and even a chalet!
Take time to visit something truly unusual: the Gallery of Shells, a room in which the ceiling and walls are completely decorated with real shells. The Music Room is located on the third floor and is where musicians used to play during festivals. The room has the unusual shape of an inverted guitar, with a wooden ceiling and a hole in the center of the floor, which allows the music to spread to the Auditorium, located on the lower floor.
Palladian Villas – Villa Sandi
As you reach the midway point of your tour, you’ll visit the stunning Palladian-style Villa Sandi, where you can unwind and indulge in some excellent Prosecco. Located in the province of Treviso, at the foot of the Prosecco area, Villa Sandi is a perfect blend of art and agriculture, which was a common practice in Veneto during the 1500s.
Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by a breathtaking avenue that leads to the villa’s entrance, adorned with statues crafted by the renowned sculptor Orazio Marinali. The main building is also embellished with a portico that is supported by four exquisite Ionic columns.
You’ll have the opportunity to explore the villa’s underground cellars, garden, and interior rooms where famous historical guests, including Napoleon Bonaparte and Antonio Canova, once stayed. Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in the rich history and beauty of this remarkable villa.
Palladian Villas – Villa Almerico Capra known as “La Rotonda”
After departing from Treviso, your journey continues to Vicenza, where you’ll have the opportunity to admire Villa Almerico. Situated on a hill just outside the city, this villa is one of the most famous Palladian villas in the region, and perhaps the most renowned of all Venetian villas. Its owner, Paolo Almerico, envisioned a sophisticated villa that would serve as a peaceful sanctuary for meditation and study.
To fulfill this dream, Palladio designed a true villa-temple. Although the building is commonly known as “La Rotonda,” it does not have a circular shape. The name likely comes from the central hall, which is covered by a dome and is perfectly round. From this vantage point, you’ll be able to take in a breathtaking 360-degree view of the surrounding landscape. Don’t miss the chance to experience the beauty and grandeur of this remarkable villa.
| Keep reading: Interesting Facts about Villa Rotonda |
Palladian villas – Villa Valmarana ai Nani
Your final stop on the Venetian villa tour is not a Palladian design, but it is highly recommended for the exquisite beauty of its interior frescoes, which were decorated by Giambattista Tiepolo and his son Giandomenico. These stunning frescoes depict scenes from the Iliad and the Aeneid, and are truly a sight to behold.
The villa is famously known as “ai Nani” (dwarves) due to the stone sculptures that line the walls. Legend has it that the owner’s daughter was diagnosed with dwarfism, and to make her feel more at ease, all the servants in the household were chosen specifically for their dwarfism.
However, when a handsome prince visited the mansion, the daughter, filled with despair, tragically took her own life by jumping off the tower. The dwarf servants were devastated by her death and, according to local legend, they still watch over the villa and its owners to this day. Don’t miss the chance to see the remarkable frescoes and learn the fascinating history behind this unique villa.
You might be interested in:
- Vicenza Myths and Legends
- Vicenza UNESCO Wonders
Which is your favorite one? These 5 Palladian villas are true jewels to experience once in a lifetime!
