Perched on a promontory in Lenno, overlooking Lake Como, Villa Balbianello reflects itself over the lake’s waters. Due to its privileged position, historic and cultural heritage the villa is one of the most enchanting and fascinating destinations of the area.
Built in 1787 by Cardinal Angelo Maria Durini on the remains of an old Franciscan monastery. The cardinal wanted a place of retreat for literary gatherings and refined entertainment so he made an elegant pavilion with a central loggia overlooking the inlet of the island of Comacina and of Tramessina. Two distinct rooms arose on the sides of the portico; a library and a music room where Durini hosted friends and writers including Giuseppe Parini.
After his death, the villa passed to various noble families; Sepolina, Porro Lambertenghi, Arconati Visconti, Marie Peyrat. In 1974 it was purchased by explorer and collector Count Guido Monzino, who furnished it with art objects and travel memorabilia. Upon his death in 1988, he donated it to the Italian Environmental Fund (FAI), which manages it today. The villa preserves refined rooms with period furnishings; ancient books and a rich collection linked to Mondino’s travels. Panoramic lodges offer spectacular views of the lake and the mountains.
The garden surrounding it develops on staggered levels, following the contours of the promontory. Between the avenues and terraces, pruned banana trees, ornamental tress and a large holm oak can be found. In the centre of the garden lies the loggia, a rectangular building with two spaces: the library and the cartographer’s’ hall, connected by a portico overlooking both sides.
Thanks to its natural and architectural setting, the villa has also been a filming location for famous movies such as Star Wars and Casino Royale.