Villa Erba, Renaissance Revival villa in Cernobbio, Italy
Villa Erba is a lakeside residence on Lake Como featuring a main house, service buildings, and guest accommodations set within extensive grounds. The complex spans a large area along the water's edge with numerous rooms and spaces for various purposes.
The estate was built in 1894 by architect Giovan Battista Borsani on land that once held a medieval Benedictine monastery. The monastery had shaped the location for centuries before the religious community departed.
The villa displays artworks created by regional craftsmen, including sculptures and frescoes that decorate the interior rooms. These works reflect the taste of the wealthy families who lived here over the generations.
The buildings now host events and cultural activities, with portions of the interior open as a museum space. Access depends on ongoing events or scheduled openings, so visitors should check conditions before arriving.
A pair of stone lions flank the main carriageway entrance, marking the threshold of the private grounds. These sculptures are among the first features visitors notice when approaching the property.
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