Nestled in the charming district of Casbeno in Varese, Italy, Villa Recalcati stands as a magnificent testament to Italian baroque architecture. This historic villa, with its grand façade and lush surroundings, invites visitors to step back in time and experience the elegance of a bygone era. Today, it serves as the seat of the Province of Varese and one of the two locations for the Prefecture of Varese, blending historical significance with contemporary relevance.
Villa Recalcati's storied past dates back to the early 18th century when it was constructed by the Milanese Marquis Gabrio Recalcati. This nobleman, a descendant of an illustrious family that included Francesco Recalcati, secretary to Ludovico il Moro, envisioned a splendid residence that would capture the essence of baroque grandeur. The villa was built adjacent to an earlier structure, preserving the last frescoes by the Grandi brothers, Giovan Battista and Gerolamo, before their untimely deaths.
Between 1731 and 1775, under the guidance of Antonio Luigi Recalcati, the villa underwent a significant transformation. It was reconstructed in the baroque style, incorporating the surrounding landscape into its design. The marquis had acquired the surrounding lands and commissioned the construction of a grand tree-lined avenue leading to the villa, creating a visual axis with the villa as its focal point. Over the years, Villa Recalcati hosted notable figures, including the poet Giuseppe Parini, adding to its rich tapestry of history.
In the mid-19th century, the villa and its park changed hands several times. Initially inherited by Giuseppe Melzi, it was later purchased by Giovan Battista Morosini, who transformed it into the Grande Albergo Excelsior. This hotel became one of the most prominent and frequented in northern Italy, welcoming illustrious guests such as Giuseppe Verdi, Gabriele D'Annunzio, and Marcel Proust. The conversion into a hotel in 1874 involved significant expansion of the structure, altering its original façade by heightening the lateral wings and enclosing the central portico.
However, the onset of World War I led to a decline in tourism, resulting in the hotel's closure. In 1927, Varese became the provincial capital, and by 1931, the provincial authorities purchased the villa, establishing it as their headquarters. Despite its transformation over the years, Villa Recalcati retains its artistic treasures, including numerous 18th-century frescoes by prominent local decorators like Pietro Antonio Magatti and Giovan Battista Ronchelli.
Scavenger hunts in Varese
Discover Varese with the digital Scavenger Hunt from myCityHunt! Solve puzzles, master team tasks and explore Varese with your team!
Visitors to Villa Recalcati are greeted by its striking U-shaped layout, which opens towards the courtyard of honor and the entrance gate. The courtyard itself is inspired by the designs of Giovanni Ruggeri and Francesco Croce, featuring a transverse portico with three arches parallel to the open side of the U. The lateral wings of the U are adorned with porticoes topped by cross vaults, adding to the villa's architectural charm.
Inside, the villa boasts a series of romantic-style rooms and a late 18th-century neoclassical hall that captures the elegance of its era. These spaces, with their intricate details and historical ambiance, offer a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the villa's former inhabitants.
Behind the villa, a beautifully landscaped park unfolds, reminiscent of a French garden. This serene space, with its manicured lawns and carefully arranged flora, provides a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. It's an ideal spot for leisurely strolls, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the natural beauty that complements the villa's architectural splendor.
Villa Recalcati is more than just a historical monument; it is a symbol of Varese's cultural heritage and architectural prowess. Its walls echo the stories of illustrious guests and the artistic endeavors of talented decorators, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and casual tourists alike. Whether you're exploring its grand halls, admiring the frescoes, or enjoying the serene gardens, Villa Recalcati promises an unforgettable journey through time.
In conclusion, Villa Recalcati stands as a beacon of Italian baroque architecture, offering a rich tapestry of history, art, and culture. Its transformation from a noble residence to a grand hotel and finally to a provincial headquarters reflects the dynamic changes it has witnessed over the centuries. Today, it continues to captivate visitors with its timeless beauty and historical significance, making it an essential stop on any tour of Varese.
Get your Tickets now!
With myCityHunt you can discover thousands of cities around the world in exciting scavenger hunts, treasure hunts and escape games!
myCityHunt vouchers are the perfect gift for many occasions! Surprise your friends and family with this extraordinary event gift. myCityHunt gift vouchers are valid for 2 years from the date of purchase and can be used within this period for a freely selectable city and tour from the myCityHunt portfolio.