Villa Paganini

Villa Paganini is a Neoclassical villa in Parma featuring symmetrical architecture defined by a central portico supported by columns and pilasters. The building sits on Strada Gaione 31 and is surrounded by an English-style garden.

The villa was built between 1820 and 1825 and purchased in 1833 by violin virtuoso Niccolò Paganini as a rest residence between concerts. It served as his private retreat during his career as a sought-after performer.

The red salon preserves the space where Paganini performed his Caprices, and the dining room features decorative wall tapestries from the 19th century. These rooms reflect how the villa served as a venue for music and artistic expression.

The villa now serves as the headquarters of Istituto San Giovanni Battista, hosting conferences and musical performances throughout the year. When planning a visit, inquire about public access, as the site primarily functions as a private venue for events.

The original owner, Count Giuseppe Castellinard, organized a lottery called Grande Loterie de la belle Villa-Gajone in 1826, selling 90,000 tickets. In an unusual turn, he won back his own property after it had been pledged.