Reggia di Rivalta

The Reggia di Rivalta is a baroque villa built with a central north-south building flanked by two perpendicular wings and corner towers that form a quadrangular courtyard opening toward the west. The entire structure was originally surrounded by extensive gardens decorated with terracotta and marble elements connected by underground water channels.

Architect Giovan Maria Ferraroni designed this palace in 1723 for Duke Francesco III d'Este and his wife Carlotta d'Orleans, taking inspiration from the Palace of Versailles. The residence became one of the most important ducal seats of its era, demonstrating the family's power and cultural refinement.

The gardens were designed to showcase wealth and refined taste through carefully arranged citrus plants and statuary collections displayed throughout the grounds. This elaborate arrangement reflected the power and sophistication of the ruling family.

Visitors can explore the baroque architecture and the remains of the once elaborate gardens, many of which are undergoing restoration or have been partially recovered. The grounds are accessible to walk through, with the warmer months offering the most pleasant experience when the landscape appears most alive.

The original garden featured sophisticated underground water systems that powered numerous fountains and decorative features, turning the landscape into an intricate network of artificial waterworks. These hydraulic marvels were typical of Europe's grandest palaces and made the estate an engineering feat of the 18th century.