If there’s one place on Lake Como where art, history, and nature come together in perfect harmony, it’s Villa Carlotta. Perched along the shores of Tremezzo, this 18th-century villa is a journey through centuries of culture and beauty. As soon as you step onto the grounds, you’re greeted by a dazzling display of gardens that stretch across the hillside, framing breathtaking views of the lake and mountains.
Step inside, and you’ll find yourself in an art lover’s paradise, with sculptures, paintings, and ornate interiors that tell the story of a bygone era. From Antonio Canova’s timeless masterpieces to stunning frescoed ceilings, every corner of the villa has something to admire.
Villa Carlotta Description
Villa Carlotta is one of Lake Como’s crown jewels, combining stunning gardens, fascinating art, and a rich history. Perched on the lakeshore in Tremezzo, this 18th-century villa boasts 70,000 square meters of meticulously landscaped gardens and interiors that house a blend of classical sculptures, paintings, and decorative arts. It’s the perfect spot for anyone who loves a mix of culture and natural beauty.
At Villa Carlotta, every season tells a different story. Spring transforms the gardens into a sea of color with blooming azaleas and rhododendrons, while summer offers shady spots under ancient trees to escape the heat. It’s not just a villa; it’s a sensory experience that leaves a lasting impression.
Villa Carlotta Top Experiences
What to Expect at Villa Carlotta
Start with the gardens, a sprawling oasis featuring everything from formal Italian terraces to English-style landscaping. You’ll find winding paths lined with exotic plants, bamboo groves, and citrus trees. The star attraction? The azalea garden, which bursts into bloom in spring, painting the hillside in shades of pink, purple, and white.
Step inside the villa itself, and you’re greeted by works of art that would make any museum envious. Sculptures by Antonio Canova and paintings by Francesco Hayez are just the tip of the iceberg. The grand staircase and ornate ceilings make every corner worth admiring (and photographing).
Feeling curious? Pop into the museum section, which offers insight into the villa’s history, including the noble families who once called it home. There are also rotating exhibitions, so every visit might offer a surprise.
Finally, enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Como, which are reason enough to visit. Whether you’re gazing from the gardens or the villa’s balconies, the shimmering lake and surrounding mountains make for an unforgettable backdrop.
But it’s not just about the indoors. The gardens are a key highlight of any visit. They’re meticulously designed to showcase the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape, with plenty of shaded spots to relax and take in the view. Do yourself a favor and take a leisurely stroll through the enchanting terraces and marvel at the rhododendrons, azaleas, and camellias. Oh, and there are towering sequoia trees that have been around for about 200 years.
The origin of Villa Carlotta
Villa Carlotta dates back to the late 17th century, built for the marquis Giorgio Clerici. Originally designed as a luxurious summer retreat, the villa was surrounded by simple terraced gardens. In the 19th century, it passed to Gian Battista Sommariva, a wealthy businessman and art collector, who transformed the villa into a cultural treasure.
Sommariva added many of the villa’s most famous artworks and expanded the gardens into the masterpiece they are today. The villa eventually became a gift from Princess Marianne of the Netherlands to her daughter, Carlotta, upon her marriage to Georg II of Saxony. It’s from this connection that the villa gets its name.
Today, Villa Carlotta is managed by a foundation and remains a hub for art lovers, history buffs, and garden enthusiasts alike.
