Back in Time: Guided Tour of Villa Pizzo in Cernobbio

Nestled between the charming towns of Moltrasio and Cernobbio, Villa Pizzo stands as a testament to five centuries of rich history on the shores of Lake Como. During the last weekend of October, Villa Pizzo offers two rendezvous: an exciting “Pumpkin Hunt” and a guided property tour. The “Pumpkin Hunt” activity is organized for families as a fun and educational adventure in the lead-up to Halloween. Children aged 5-10, accompanied by an adult, can explore hidden pumpkins and solve riddles scattered throughout the park. This engaging activity lasts approximately an hour and promises to be great fun!

On the same day afternoon, the second appointment is organized for the history admires. The guided tour of Villa Pizza will unveil the history, charm and secrets of this beautiful maison.

The name “Pizzo” derives from the regional dialect, meaning point or projection, aptly describing the rocky spur upon which the villa proudly rests. Its history dates back to the 15th century when the Mugiasca family acquired the land. For over four hundred years, they safeguarded the villa, witnessing significant historical moments, including the devastating plague of 1629, immortalized by the renowned author Alessandro Manzoni.

After the Mugiasca family lineage concluded, Archduke Rainer of Austria, Viceroy of the Kingdom of Lombardy–Venetia, took ownership, seeking solace from the complex political climate of the time. Accompanying him was the esteemed landscape architect Villoresi, renowned for designing the Royal Villa in Monza. Villoresi fashioned the final layout of the sprawling gardens surrounding the villa.
Following the upheavals of the late 1800s, culminating in the uprisings in 1848, the Viceroy departed, and the villa found a new owner in the captivating Madame Elise Musard from Paris. Her distinctive touch left an indelible mark, painting the villa in the soft hue of pink, a characteristic feature that still endures.

After Madame Musard’s tragic passing, Villa Pizzo entered the hands of the Volpi-Bassani family. They honoured the architectural and stylistic legacy of the past while introducing valuable elements, such as the family mausoleum and the grand dock, which offers breathtaking views of the lake. The villa’s architecture, characterized by its simplicity and geometric lines, harmonizes seamlessly with the diverse and irregular forms, colours, and styles of the gardens.

Today, Villa Pizzo offers guided tours that promise an immersive experience through its expansive gardens, culminating in a visit to the exquisitely furnished interiors with original furniture. These tours, lasting approximately two hours, offer a glimpse into the villa’s storied past.

Date: October 29, 2023

Time: 10:00 Pumpkin Hunt

Time: 14:30 Guided Tour

Price: 15€  (5 € for kids and 10€ reduced)

Address: Villa Pizzo, via Regina 48, Cernobbio

Reservations are mandatory: booking@villapizzo.com.

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