Villa Il Ventaglio, Neoclassical villa with park in Florence, Italy
Villa Il Ventaglio is a neoclassical country house in Florence set within an extensive park of roughly 5 hectares. The grounds include a small lake, an island, romantic winding paths, and areas with decorative hedges of laurel and wayfaring trees plus yew plantings along the edges.
The property started in the 15th century as a rest house for pilgrims heading to the San Domenico church in Fiesole. Florentine architect Giuseppe Poggi completely redesigned it in 1839, transforming the practical pilgrim stop into a romantic parkland.
The name Il Ventaglio refers to the fan-like layout of the gardens and pathways that unfold as you explore on foot. This design reflects how the owners transformed the land into an elegant retreat that displayed their taste and learning.
The park opens in the early morning and closes in the early evening, with extended hours during warmer months. Wear comfortable shoes since the pathways cross varied terrain and there are changes in elevation throughout the grounds.
The planting scheme relies heavily on native species like laurel and yew, showing how Florentine garden makers blended classical landscape art with local plant life. This choice of plantings was deliberate when Poggi redesigned the grounds, giving the park a more natural appearance.
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