TRIUMPH OF TASTE

In the 1500s a craze spread across northern Italy among the noblesse, eager to have country manors designed by the “starchitect” of the moment, Andrea Palladio.

Palladio, who lived and worked in Vicenza, had studied in Rome where he was profoundly influenced by the planning principles of Vitruvius. As a fervent supporter of classical architecture and, at the same time, sophisticated interpreter of contemporary fashions, Palladio developed his very own style which masterly blended the ideals of balance and symmetry advocated by the ancient Romans with the desire for elegance and refinement pursued by local lords. Palladio’s contribution to the development of Western architecture is indisputable and his legacy still very much alive not only in Veneto, which boasts twenty-four of his villas, but also across Europe and as far afield as America and Australia where his Renaissance residences became models for generations of architects and country gentlemen.

Guests will relive the splendours of 16th century Veneto on visits to two UNESCO-listed mansions, then pop the cork on the secrets of wine making as they sip Prosecco at a renowned cantina.

You begin your day with a 60-minute drive from Piazzale Roma to Villa Emo, a historic residence rising gracefully amidst the green fields of Fanzolo, surrounded by beautifully tended gardens. Built at the request of Venetian aristocrat and landowner Leonardo Emo in the mid-1500s, the villa perfectly fulfilled its functions as a working farm and luxury retreat, where its owner could find refuge from the frenetic clamour of Venice. The central manor house, with its distinctive temple-style entrance, is flanked by two porticoed side wings which once served as workplaces, barns and stables. The simplicity and harmony of the exterior belie the wonderful sights that await visitors once they cross the threshold. Step inside to admire the sumptuously decorated rooms of the piano nobile, featuring classical-themed frescoes by Mannerist painter Battista Zelotti. Your private guide will show you around what were the private quarters of the Emo family for some eighteen generations and sketch a vivid picture of life in this idyllic corner of Veneto five hundred years ago.

A short drive will then bring you to Villa Barbaro, another of Palladio’s masterpieces built between 1550 and 1560 for the brothers Daniele and Marcantonio Barbaro. Again, this magnificent rural estate is evidence of the architect’s skill in fusing the grandeur of a stately palazzo with the efficiency and practical needs of a working farm. The building consists of two symmetrical arcaded wings and a central block, designed to resemble the portico of a Roman shrine. The highlights of Villa Barbaro are six frescoed halls, skilfully decorated by Renaissance master Paolo Veronese. The painted cycle includes trompe l’oeil landscapes, portraits and mythological scenes and is considered to be among the most extraordinary achievements of the Cinquecento in Veneto.

After some free time for lunch rejoin your driver and head for the last stop on your tour, a winery set in the grounds of a 17th century Palladian-style villa. Inside, stuccoes, bas-reliefs and Murano glass chandeliers embellish the halls of this mansion which once hosted illustrious personages, including Napoleon himself. The successful estate is run by a local family, now on the third generation of wine makers, and prides itself on producing fine Proseccos which are receiving growing acclaim both nationally and abroad. Upon arrival a qualified member of staff will greet you and lead you on a tour of the underground cellars, villa and surrounding gardens while explaining the history of the residence and wine making techniques. Your day will end with a tasting of the estate’s bubbly elixir and a toast… cheers to Veneto!