- Art & Culture
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The Villa Melzi d’Eril Gardens
In Bellagio, the gardens of Villa Melzi which stretch foralmost a kilometre along the Lake Como, attract thousands of visitors each year
This magnificent villa was built at the start of the 19th century by Francesco Melzi d’Eril, vice-president of the Italian Republic established by his personal friend Napoleon.
A large elegant white building in Neoclassical style which fits perfectly into its setting on the shores of Lake Como. But what attracts thousands of visitors every year are the gardens, which stretch for almost a kilometre along the lakeshore. Designed by Luigi Canonica and Luigi Villoresi, today the gardens constitute a magic retreat, a delight for the eyes and spirit alike.
Here are both venerable trees and exotic plants such as cedar trees from Lebanon, Ginkgo balboa, copper beeches and camphor trees, together with a superb collection of statues and monuments, some ornamenting the terrace overlooking the lake.
Other features of the gardens include a private chapel, an aedicule in Moorish style, various Egyptian statues from Napoleon’s campaign in Egypt and an orangerie, with a museum dedicated to memorabilia and prints from the Italian Republic established by Napoleon.
Opening hours
March-October: 9.30 am-6.30 pm.
Admission: charge
