Villa Durazzo Pallavicini, 19th century villa and museum in Pegli, Italy
Villa Durazzo Pallavicini in Pegli is a 19th century mansion that houses a museum of Ligurian archaeology and is surrounded by extensive gardens on a hillside behind the main building. The site spans a large area with different landscape sections and structured pathways for visitors to explore.
The complex was designed between 1837 and 1846 by Michele Canzio for Marchese Ignazio Pallavicini and incorporates theatrical elements inspired by Teatro Carlo Felice. This architectural connection reflects Canzio's background in theatrical design.
The park is designed like a theatrical performance, with different sections representing three acts: Return to Nature, Memory, and Purification, using temples, obelisks, caves, and lakes to guide visitors through a symbolic journey.
The mansion is located at Via Pallavicini 13 next to Genova Pegli train station and is easily accessible from the street. The archaeological museum and gardens are open for visitors on various days, with the main entrance providing the best access to the grounds.
Underground grottos beneath the park contain walkways and a subterranean lake, guiding visitors through a symbolic journey from the underworld to paradise. These hidden spaces are often overlooked by visitors even though they form an important part of the park's theatrical narrative.
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