Colonia Regina Elena, Summer camp in Calambrone, Italy
Colonia Regina Elena is a former summer camp in Calambrone comprising three interconnected buildings set within grounds planted with pine trees and Mediterranean vegetation. The complex has been repurposed into residential apartments that serve the local community today.
Designed by architect Ghino Venturi in 1931, the complex originally served as an educational boarding school for young guests. It stopped operating as a camp in 1977 and was later converted into residential housing for permanent residents.
The Church of Santa Rosa at the center showcases a basilica layout with a dome and long narrow windows that let light filter through gently. This sacred space remains a focal point within the residential complex, offering a quiet corner for reflection.
The location is easily accessible from Pisa and situated in a calm residential area with good walkways throughout the grounds. Visitors can explore the buildings and gardens at their own pace while enjoying the natural surroundings.
A distinctive colonnade runs along the complex and unifies the facades of all three main buildings through its continuous architectural rhythm. This element represents a noteworthy feature of early 20th-century design and creates a striking visual connection across the entire site.
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