Villa dei Vescovi

Background

Built in the first half of the sixteenth century as a summer retreat for the bishops of Padua, the Villa dei Vescovi is considered a masterpiece by the Veronese architect and painter Giovanni Maria Falconetto (1468-1535). Set on a hilltop, it commands attention and provides a contrast to the villas of Andrea Palladio (1508-1580), which became the standard of excellence in the next generation. Falconnetto’s villa design was well known in its day and admired as a high point of sixteenth-century architecture in the region. The entrance of the villa is characterized by four portals, a stone balustrade encircling the ground level, running the length of the entrance’s grand staircases, and the loggia on the first level. The interiors are covered by frescoes painted by celebrated artist Lamberto Sustris between 1542 and 1543. The villa and its estate remained the property of the bishops of Padua until 1962, when the villa was purchased and restored by the Olcese family. Subsequently, in 2005, the nonprofit organization Fondo per l’Ambiente Italiano (FAI), acquired the property and began a conservation campaign.

How We Helped

Although the villa remained intact under the Olcese family, extensive conservation was required, as the property’s conditions had deteriorated over time. Dampness, environmental pollution, and natural aging had eroded decorative surfaces and had begun to cause some structural damage. Crumbling, cracking, salt efflorescence, and biological growth along the portals, balustrade, and loggia were the most notable problems. In 2007, WMF collaborated with FAI to document and conserve the building’s four portals, the remarkably crafted but badly deteriorated stone balustrade, and the loggia. A ceremony on June 21, 2011, attended by WMFEurope President Bertrand du Vignaud, marked the official opening of the villa to the public.

Why It Matters

Villa dei Vescovi represents the Renaissance revival of antiquity and a concern for strict attention to proportion and humanistic ideals. As the property remained in the hands of the bishops of Padua for over 400 years, it provides a unique view of the artistic values of the early sixteenth century. The villa’s architect, Giovanni Maria Falconetto, was one of the most prominent and artistic visionaries of his time and was well known for his Renaissance design principles and accomplishments.