The calendar of events at Villa Pizzo continues into June, a perfect month to experience the villa’s timeless charm and lakeside beauty. This month, there are three special appointments scheduled at sunset—an ideal time to take in the breathtaking views over Lake Como.
In June, the garden is in full bloom, offering a spectacular setting for guided tours through the historic estate. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore not only the lush park and elegant paths but also gain exclusive access to rarely opened areas such as the family chapel and selected rooms on the piano nobile.
Villa Pizzo’s gardens, rich in history and tranquility, become an extraordinary place to enjoy the golden hour. As the sun sets over the lake, few experiences compare to the serenity and splendor of this unique setting—an unforgettable way to spend a summer evening on Lake Como.
Villa Pizzo is one of Lake Como’s oldest estates, perched on a rocky point between Moltrasio and Cernobbio. Its name comes from Piz, meaning “promontory” in the local dialect. The land was first acquired in 1435 by the Mugiasca family, who retained it for over four centuries. The villa’s earliest known mention dates to 1569.
In the 1500s, during local conflicts, the villa was occupied by commander Gian Battista Speciano, fighting against the rebel Medeghino. During the 1629 plague, the estate became a refuge, prompting the construction of terraced gardens still seen today. Notably, Alessandro Volta was a guest here, later honoured with the first monument ever dedicated to him.
Under Austrian rule, Abbot Giovanni Francesco Mugiasca and later Giacomo Mugiasca expanded the estate, working with the renowned architect Simone Cantoni. The Mugiasca lineage ended in 1842, and the property passed to Archduke Ranieri of Austria. During political unrest in 1848, the villa played a minor role in the Risorgimento, even supplying small cannons for local resistance.
Later, Madame Elise Musard of Paris purchased the villa, giving it its iconic pink colour and refined décor. After her tragic decline and death, the estate was bought by Fortunato Bassani for his daughter. Her husband, Pietro Volpi, restored and enhanced the villa, commissioning a grand boathouse and a mausoleum by architect Luca Beltrami.
Today, Villa Pizzo is a living archive of personal stories, historic shifts, and artistic vision—a timeless corner of Lake Como with layers of heritage and beauty.
Information – Guided Walks
June Sunset Tours at Villa Pizzo
Wednesdays: 11th, 18th, and 25th June, 2025
Start time: 18:30
Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours
Cost: Full ticket €15
Reduced ticket (under 18s and students): €10
Children (under 10): Free
Parking: On request, parking is available within the Villa’s grounds
Advice: Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
Villa Pizzo
Via Regina, 46, 22012 Cernobbio (CO)
booking@villapizzo.com
+39 331 134 0676
Start: June 11, 2025 18:30 End: June 25, 2025 20:00
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