Villa Balbaniello in Tremezzina
Villa del Balbianello, nestled on the tip of the Lavedo peninsula in Lenno, a hamlet of Tremezzina, is one of Lake Como’s most precious gems.
Built in 1787 by Cardinal Angelo Maria Durini on the site of an ancient Franciscan monastery, the villa soon became a refined gathering place for intellectuals and artists of the time.
Villa del Balbianello is open for visits by reservation only.
The Villa’s motto“Fay ce que voudras” ("Do as you please") is the motto inscribed at the entrance of Villa del Balbianello, words that reflect the very spirit of this place, which has always been characterized by freedom of thought and culture. |
Distinguished guestsOver the centuries, the villa passed through many hands, hosting notable figures such as Silvio Pellico and Alessandro Manzoni. In 1974, explorer Guido Monzino purchased the property, enriching it with mementoes from his expeditions, including the one that made him the first Italian to reach the summit of Everest. Upon his death in 1988, Monzino bequeathed the villa to FAI – the Italian National Trust. |
TriviaThe terraced gardens, panoramic loggias, and elegant architecture have made Villa del Balbianello a sought-after film location: scenes from Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones and Casino Royale were filmed here. |
