Villa Farragiana a Meina

Villa Farragiana is a 19th-century Neoclassical residence on the shores of Lake Maggiore in Meina, distinguished by its lakeside facade with a columned portico and grand interior staircase. The building displays eleven marble medallions of celebrated Italian figures carved above its windows, along with an allegorical sculpture of Fame set in the pediment above the central entrance.

Alessandro Farragiana commissioned the building in 1855 following designs by architect Antonio Bussero for use as a summer retreat. In 1949, a religious community from Bergamo received the property as a gift and adapted it to serve as a care facility.

The villa once housed a senator who collected artworks and natural specimens displayed throughout the rooms, reflecting scholarly interests of his time. These treasures shaped how the property was understood and valued by visitors.

The property sits directly on the lakeshore and is easily viewed from the waterfront path running along the edge of town. Since it now functions as a care facility, interior access is not available to visitors.

Stone lions perch on pedestals flanking the entrance gates, standing guard over the driveway approach. These carved guardians remain in place today and create a striking first impression for passersby.

Location: Meina

GPS coordinates: 45.78207,8.54108

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:08