Archive for 'Castles & Palaces'

With so many listings all across Italy, here at Italy Villas we are proud to be able to offer all sorts of different kinds of villas in Italy to our customers. They vary hugely when it comes to size, numbers of guests that they sleep, amenities, price-point, location, and style. However, we also have a variety of uniquely Italian traditional property types to choose between, from literal castles to fascinating local building styles that have endured for centuries. If you're an architecture fan or you love staying in distinct regional properties, there are some very special options for you to choose among. Here's a guide to some of the incredible Italian types of homes that we offer...

Sicily, in particular, is a region of Italy that is full of incredible architectural gems and great architectural cities from the Arab-Norman wonders of Palermo to the ornate and sumptuous Baroque seen in Noto. As such, many of the towns and cities of the island are well-worth simply wandering while keeping your eyes properly open to all of the beauty all around you. Those who find a villa in Syracuse should definitely take this advice to heart as there are ample world-class monuments to visit but the streets, in general, are dotted with gorgeous buildings both famous and little-known that are true architectural wonders. So, seek out the attractions in town but also explore, get a little bit lost, and take in the beauty of this city during a vacation in Sicily. 

If you find a villa in Campania and you are a fan of palaces and unbelievable architectural gems, then a visit to the incomparable Royal Palace of Caserta is a must. Located in Caserta in Campania, this massive and beautiful building is a former royal residence that was originally built for the Bourbon kings of Naples in the 18th century. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is a truly breathtaking sight to behold and for those who love to get a little lost in time and spend hours admiring the extraordinary homes of nobles, it is utterly unmissable. The largest palace in Europe, the size alone of the Royal Palace of Caserta is awe-inspiring and mind-boggling. However, this in addition to the staggering wealth of artworks, the gorgeous architecture, and the stunning gardens all adds up to a singular experience.

Begun in 1752 under the reign of Charles VII of Naples and designed by Luigi Vanvitelli in close collaboration with Charles, it never actually was his home as he abdicated in 1759 to become the King of Spain. The palace is inspired by the social model of Versailles and in design by the Royal Palace of Madrid, where Charles had grown up, as well as the Charlottenburg Palace. 

The region of Lombardy is an excellent destination for those who enjoy good food, lush scenery, and visiting incredible palaces and architectural gems. Some of Italy’s most sumptuous buildings exist here and it is an ideal spot in which to plan holidays full of day trips, going out to enjoy that beautiful landscape, potter around little towns, discover delicious local products, and explore some truly magical castles and noble homes. If you are a fan of these sorts of rambling but adventurous kinds of holidays then we recommend finding a villa in Lombardy and coming to discover all that this stunning region has to offer the discerning tourist.

Certainly, if you have found a vacation rental in Lombardy and are near Brescia, you should set aside some time to visit Castello di Padernello. This stunning castle looks like something from a fairytale, can be toured, hosts exciting exhibitions and events right through the year, and has some excellent eateries to keep the foodies in your group happy! Located in a particularly lovely part of Lombardy and in the charming village of Padernello, there is plenty to see and do on a day out at this gem!

There are plenty of amazing architectural gems located all around Italy that are then further enhanced and complemented by artistic decorations inside the property such as frescoes, sculptures, paintings, and more. As it is Italy and has long been a hotspot for great creative talent it is not uncommon, therefore, to come across two, or many more, wildly famous and world-renowned artists at work in the same great house. This is very much the case at the Villa Barbaro, or Villa di Maser, one of the stunning villas that was formerly the sprawling home estate of the noble stock of Veneto and was designed by the impossibly influential and incredibly gifted architect Palladio. Inside, the talent continues in abundance with truly stunning frescoes by lauded painter Veronese, among other great talents. Those who were considering a vacation rental in Veneto, therefore, who consider themselves fans of beauty, art, architecture, and/or culture should definitely add it to their list of must-see gems in the region as it is a true masterpiece and utterly breathtaking.