A “villa of delight” in rococo style
Step into the enchanting world of Villa Della Porta Bozzolo, a magnificent historic residence nestled in the picturesque municipality of Casalzuigno, in the province of Varese. Originally built in the 16th century as a charming countryside getaway, it later transformed into a stunning summer retreat for the illustrious Lombard family, the Della Portas, during the 18th century.
It was a time of remarkable metamorphosis, orchestrated by the visionary couple, Gian Angelo Della Porta and his wife Isabella Giulini, who expanded and adorned the estate with exquisite rococo-style frescoes and an awe-inspiring Italian garden. As the 19th century unfolded, the fortunes of the Della Porta family dwindled, and the villa passed into the hands of the Bozzolo family, who graciously bestowed it upon the FAI in 1989. Today, this architectural gem stands as a testament to the rich history and enduring beauty that is waiting to be discovered.
The villa’s magnificent interiors
The captivating interiors of Villa Della Porta Bozzolo are adorned with rococo-style frescoes and period furnishings. As you explore, the grandeur unfolds before your eyes. The first room to greet you is the magnificent Ballroom, where frescoes and the captivating painting of the Encounter between Peace and Justice await. Continuing your journey, you enter the Billiard Room, graced by the busts of Camillo Bozzolo and his wife Caterina Belfanti, along with a rare antique gambling game. The Music Salon beckons with its artistic depiction of Apollo and Diana. On the ground floor, the dining room and the study, adorned with intricate frescoes and elegant furniture, transport you to a bygone era.
Venturing to the first floor, a truly enchanting space awaits. The frescoed gallery, adorned with graceful female figures symbolizing the seven Virtues, captivates the imagination. Ascending further, you discover a series of unique and beautifully appointed bedrooms, each with its own distinct charm, adorned with exquisite period furnishings. Notably, the “Yellow Bedroom” comes alive with frescoes depicting the remarkable journey of Moses.
Descending to the lower floor, you encounter the more rustic areas of the villa, once dedicated to the bustling activities of the domestic staff. Explore the well-preserved kitchens and delve into the cellar, home to a treasure trove of vintage bottles. Outside, take in the sights of the wooden press, the spinning wheel, and the stables, evoking the bygone era of a flourishing estate.
An Italian garden
The Villa della Porta Bozzolo boasts one of Italy’s most magnificent architectural gems nestled amidst lush greenery—the monumental Italian garden. Its captivating beauty lies in its original terraced design, intricately carved in stone, ascending the hillside to reveal the expansive “theatre” lawn. Within this sprawling green space lies the hidden treasure of the “secret garden,” an intimate haven where one can find solace while strolling along the tree-lined avenue, leading to a charming shrine adorned with a fresco depicting Apollo and the Muses.
Adding to the allure and enchantment is the captivating “Giardino delle rose” or Rose Garden, which unveils an extraordinary display of blossoms during the spring, further enhancing the allure of this captivating sanctuary.
A territorial partnership
Villa della Porta Bozzolo, graciously donated to FAI – Fondo per l’Ambiente Italiano, The National Trust for Italy by the Bozzolo heirs in 1989, has been selected by Dolce&Gabbana for the prestigious Milan Design Week. As a brand that has always recognized and celebrated the excellence of Italian craftsmanship, as well as the artistic and architectural wonders of the land, Dolce&Gabbana has adorned one of the Villa’s main rooms with the vibrant Carretto Siciliano print.
In 2023, Dolce&Gabbana formed a partnership with FAI, united by a shared commitment to preserving Italian heritage, culture, tradition, education, and beauty. This collaboration underscores the deep bond the fashion house has with its Italian roots and its dedication to promoting the country’s unique treasures.
During the Milan Design Week, Dolce&Gabbana commemorated this new alliance with a captivating exhibition in the city’s boutique windows, showcasing exclusive content created specifically for the Virtual Room at the Dolce&Gabbana Casa store on Corso Venezia 7. Among these captivating displays was a tribute to the exquisite Villa della Porta Bozzolo, epitomizing the essence of Dolce&Gabbana’s artistic vision and reverence for Italian culture.
