The façade of Villa Torrigiani is one of the finest examples of baroque architecture in Tuscany
LUCCA, ITALY: Not far from the historic city of Lucca there are several monumental Villas in the Lucca Hills harmoniously inserted in the surrounding farmlands. As a matter of fact, the gardens are designed to astonish and entertain aristocratic guests. Here are green space and exotic plants and trees. One of the most famous is Villa Torrigiani with the striking English Garden voted “Garden of the Year 2018” in Italy. Certainly, touring the villas on the outskirts of Lucca makes a very interesting day.
A summer residence
Villa Torrigiani is located in the hamlet of Camigliano, a town in Capannori. It is a historical villa, dating from the second half of the sixteenth century. This huge Villa and the park become the summer residence of the powerful Buonvisi family. In 1636 it was bought by Nicolo Santini, ambassador of the Republic of Lucca at the court of Louis XIV at Versailles.
Branded as Little Versailles
Art and frescos. The theatrical façade of Villa Torrigiani is one of the finest examples of baroque architecture in Tuscany. With a one kilometer drive linen with centuries old cypress.
The walls of Villa Torrigiani are very thick and provide a nearly constant temperature year round. This is good for the art and especially the frescos, which are still vibrant after all these years. Torrigiani has been open for visitors since 1967, from March until November.
Little Versailles
Locally Villa Torrigiani is branded as “Little Versailles”. The front, garden and rooms complement the original furniture still present in the Italian villa. For instance, the villa is still inhabited by the family, now by Vittoria Colonna. She is living here during the summer – her apartment is located in the first floor, however, not open for visitors. But as you move through the area of Lucca, you’ll discover much more.
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